Start-Rite Hygiene Tip

3 Essential Oral Hygiene Tips

1. Brush teeth twice a day
   
   Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day. Brushing removes the sugar debris and plaque on them. In the morning it is advisable to brush your teeth before eating breakfast as this removes any bacteria that has built up overnight. It takes eight hours for plaque acid producing bacteria to form in a clean mouth. It is also advisable not to use water when brushing your teeth. This ensures the maximum cleaning effect of the brush on the teeth and keeps the fluoride in the toothpaste at its optimal strength. Toothbrushes should be replaced every two to three months.
2. Always use a fluoride toothpaste
   
   Fluoride is a natural mineral in the teeth that increases the strength of tooth enamel. In any tooth there is only a thin layer of fluoride in the top part of the enamel. This layer does not replenish itself naturally, therefore it is necessary to use additional fluoride. Fluoride in toothpaste is absorbed by the enamel; strengthening the teeth against decay. Children also benefit from taking fluoride tablets and babies from taking fluoride drops in areas where the drinking water has less than 0.7 ppm of fluoride in it.