Regular dental and dental hygiene check-ups are needed throughout your lifetime.
Dental hygiene check-ups include examination of teeth as well as all tissues in
and around the mouth. People with full or partial dentures also need to have
their mouths examined regularly to assess the fit of their dentures and the
overall health of their mouth.
Good nutrition contributes to the health of your teeth and gums which is
directly linked to your overall health. Following Canada's Food Guide is a healthy choice.
Between-meal snacking may contribute to tooth decay. Choosing nutritious snacks
that are low in sugar and do not promote tooth decay helps in the fight against
cavities. Foods such as apples and raw carrots, and hard cheese have a natural
cleansing action on teeth, making good snack food choices.
Acid production from bacterial plaque occurs most dramatically
within 20 minutes of eating, contributing to tooth decay. That
is why rinsing your mouth with water after eating is a good habit.
Effective brushing techniques clean only the most exposed tooth surfaces.
Flossing is a good choice to clean the areas between your teeth and where your
toothbrush can't reach.
Brushing and flossing with an ineffective technique may do more harm than good.
Dental hygienists can teach you how to use your toothbrush, dental floss and
other cleaning aids effectively without causing excessive wear or damage to the
teeth and gums.
A vigorous rinse with water may help to dislodge food particles and dilute acid
produced by plaque bacteria. Rinsing throughout the day supports daily brushing
and flossing to maintain oral health.
Fluoride is an important tool in the fight against tooth decay and may be found
in such sources as community water supplies, private wells and tooth paste.
Read more about the benefits of
fluoride
.
Sports injuries often involve damage to the teeth. When engaging in rugged and
contact sports, a mouth guard should always be worn.
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