Why should I keep my mouth clean?

• It is vital that you keep your mouth clean, as it helps to prevent dental disease
• You should brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste, as this helps to get rid of the plaque and thus prevent decay and gum disease
• You should rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic food and drink. This will take away the acids and help to prevent erosion
• To maintain healthy teeth and gums you should thoroughly clean them twice a day and reduce your intake of acidic food and drink

What should I do to keep my teeth clean?

• You should use a soft-to-medium toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Ensure that you replace the toothbrush when the bristles get out of shape. A good rule-of-thumb for replacing your toothbrush is every three months
• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, ensuring that you brush every tooth and that you carefully clean the join between the teeth and gums to ensure that you remove any trace of plaque

Should I use floss?

• You should ask your dentist or hygienist whether you need to use floss. If they do advise, you should use it.
• Initially you may need to practice in front of a mirror. Using about 18 inches of floss, wrap the ends around the middle fingers of each hand. You should leave two to three inches between the first finger and thumb
• Gently slide the floss between two teeth and put it round one tooth, next to the gum, using your fingers
• Move the floss up and down the side of the tooth several times and then move to the next tooth until every tooth has been flossed
• You should not use floss on children