Brushing Teeth & Healthy Eating

 Correct ways of Brushing

Proper brushing takes at least two minutes — that's right, 120 seconds! Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. To get a feel for the time involved, try using a stopwatch or a timer. To properly brush your teeth, use short, gentle strokes, paying extra attention to the gum-line, hard-to-reach back teeth and areas around fillings, crowns or other restoration. Concentrate on thoroughly cleaning each section as follows:

• Clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teethClean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.  Make sure you tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gumline and sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline.
• Clean the chewing surfaces by gently brushing the outside, inside and chewing surface of each tooth using short back-and-forth strokes.
• Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath. For fresher breath, be sure to brush your tongue, too

Most dental professionals agree that a soft-bristled brush is best for removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Small-headed brushes are also preferable, since they can better reach all areas of the mouth, including hard-to-reach back teeth. For many, a powered toothbrush is a good alternative. It can do a better job of cleaning teeth, particularly for those who have difficulty brushing or who have limited manual dexterity.  It is important that you use a toothpaste that's right for you. Today there is a wide variety of toothpaste designed for many conditions, including cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth and sensitivity. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist which toothpaste is right for you.   You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear, or every three months, whichever comes first. It is also very important to change toothbrushes after you've had a cold, since the bristles can collect germs that can lead to re-infection. Colgate Research Centre

Healthy Eating -Prevention

Eating a balanced diet plays an important role in dental health. A balanced diet includes all the main food groups: fruits and vegetables, milk products, meat, fish, etc. Foods that are good for oral health: Foods high in fibre, such as fresh fruits and vegetables - they increase the saliva flow, which neutralises acids, helping to clean the teeth of food particles and sugars during chewing. Rich foods without sugar - milk, yoghurt, rice, meat, fish, fruits, etc.  Fruits and vegetables that contain a high volume of water - pears, melons, celery, and cucumbers.

Foods that cause tooth decay: Foods with a high concentration of sugar - cakes, ice cream, honey, etc. Acidic drinks with a low pH value - can damage the tooth enamel. Sticky foods – these do not get washed away from the tooth surface easily by the saliva, hence increasing the exposure of teeth to sugar and acids and, consequently, tooth decay.