You probably already have a good oral health routine, but what about having a great routine? Vhi Chief Dental Officer, Dr Gina Kilfeather, has five tips to bring your dental regime from A to A+.

You might be wondering what you could possibly not know about your oral health routine as an adult, but there are often small adjustments anyone can make to see improvements. For instance, did you know that brushing only cleans around 65% of a tooth’s surface? Have a look at my top tips to ensure you’re getting the best clean you can.

1. Brushing

You should brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day. Ensure you spend an equal amount of time on each quadrant of your mouth and brush all the surfaces of your teeth. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, pointed towards the gums, and gently scrub in short, circular motions. Hold your toothbrush with your thumb and forefinger, rather than gripped in your fist, to avoid using too much pressure and damaging your gums. Don’t rinse your mouth with water after brushing, because it can wash away the fluoride that your toothpaste has left on your teeth. Fluoride is important because it helps to prevent tooth decay. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three months or whenever the bristles become worn. When the bristles wear down too much, they’re less effective at removing plaque. 

2. Interdental cleaning

Flossing can sometimes feel like a real effort, but brushing only cleans about 65% of a tooth’s surface. Completing some form of extra interdental cleaning can remove food, plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Use floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser (your dentist can make a recommendation) once a day after brushing.

3. Mouthwash

It’s common for people to use mouthwash as part of their brushing routine in the morning or evening. But we should instead use mouthwash at a separate time to brushing. Using it after brushing just washes away the fluoride boost from your toothpaste. Sip a small amount, perhaps after your lunch, and swish it around your mouth for 30–40 seconds, then spit it out. Try to avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes after using mouthwash, so the fluoride has time to get to work without being washed away. Your dentist will recommend the best one for you. Some people will need extra fluoride, some may need a mouthwash specifically for gum health. 

4. Clean your tongue

Cleaning your tongue removes extra bacteria and helps prevent bad breath as a result. Put a little bit of toothpaste on your toothbrush (you can also use a tongue scraper or cleaner if you like) and brush your tongue in circular motions, followed by a rinse with water.  

5. Visit your dentist regularly

A good oral healthcare routine at home is essential, but it’s not enough on its own. It’s recommended that we see a dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning to remove plaque and hardened tartar. Your dentist will also check for visual signs of cavities, gum disease and other oral health issues.

If you want tips specific to caring for children’s teeth, have a look at my blog, ‘How to care for your child’s baby teeth’. You’ll find more dental content on our Verified blog, and always reach out to your dentist with any concerns or queries.

This content is for information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your GP or an appropriate medical professional if you have concerns about your health, or before commencing a new healthcare regime. If you believe that you are experiencing a medical emergency call 999 / 112 or seek emergency assistance immediately.