Smile … and the world smiles with you

Whether it's the smile you were born with or one that's been created just for you, it's important to maintain a daily oral hygiene routine.

Keep your smile bright and beautiful by …

Brushing

Thorough brushing twice a day removes plaque that attacks your tooth enamel and causes cavities. Use a brush with soft nylon bristles that are rounded at the tip and use slow, gentle strokes. Don't rush. Remember to clean the inside teeth surfaces where plaque deposits build up and don't forget to clean the gum line of the very back teeth. Finish by brushing your tongue, cheek sides and the roof of your mouth. Replace your brush as soon as the bristles start to fray or wear, about every three or four months.

Flossing

Dental floss removes plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line where your toothbrush can't reach. To make sure you floss every tooth, start at the very back and work your way around the lower and upper teeth. Gently ease the floss between the teeth and gum line curving it around the tooth in a 'c' shape. Gently rub the floss up and down, moving it from the gum line to the top of the tooth until the enamel is squeaky clean. Make sure you floss every time you brush your teeth.

Mouthwash

A final rinse with mouthwash will wash away any residue, freshen your breath and give you that extra feeling of cleanliness and confidence. Choose one that does not burn the tissue or contain alcohol or sugar. An excellent home-made mouthwash can be prepared by adding a couple of drops of oil of cloves, peppermint or spearmint to distilled or tap water.

Toothpaste

Believe it or not, toothpaste is not essential to oral hygiene - it's the brushing that counts! After brushing and rinsing, rub your teeth together slowly and deliberately; if you can sense a gritty, sandy feeling, then your toothpaste is too abrasive.

Flouride

Recent studies show that flouride is just as effective in preventing cavities in adults as it is in children. Use a flouride toothpaste and a flouride mouthwash to reduce the incidence of decay.

Regular Check Ups

Although daily brushing, flossing and rinsing help remove plague and early tartar formation, once tartar has hardened, it can only be removed by your dentist. Make an appointment for a regular check-up and clean every six months. Cosmetic enhancements such as veneers, caps, bridges and implants will also require regular checks and maintenance from your dentist.