A professional clean removes the build-up you cannot reach yourself. What happens in the months between cleans matters just as much. The good news is that the habits that help are small, and most take only a few minutes a day.
Brush well, not hard
Brush twice a day for about two minutes, using a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the bristles towards the line where your teeth meet your gums, and use small, gentle circles. Pressing hard does not clean better, and it can irritate your gums.
Many people find a brush with a small head and a thick handle easier to control. An electric brush can help too, as it does much of the work for you. Whatever you choose, the right brush is the one you will use every day, so choose one that feels comfortable.
Replace your brush, or the brush head, about every three months, or sooner if the bristles splay out.
Clean between your teeth
A brush cannot reach between your teeth, which is where gum trouble often begins. Pick whatever you will actually use:
- floss or floss picks
- small interdental brushes
- a water flosser
If your gums bleed when you start, do not stop. Mild bleeding is common at first and often settles in a week or two as the area gets cleaner. If it continues, tell your clinician.
Think about how often, not just how much
Your teeth are under pressure each time you eat or drink something sugary or acidic, and it takes time for your mouth to recover. Sipping a sweet drink all afternoon is harder on your teeth than having it with a meal. Water is a friendly choice between meals.
After acidic food or drinks, wait about half an hour before brushing, as softened enamel is easier to wear away.
Little extras that help
Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal can encourage saliva, which helps protect your teeth. If you grind your teeth at night or your jaw feels tense in the morning, mention it at your next visit.
If you smoke or vape, cutting back is one of the kindest things you can do for your gums.
When to get help
Make an appointment if you notice gums that bleed often, bad breath that does not go away, teeth that feel loose or sensitive, or a sore spot that lingers for more than a couple of weeks. A visit sooner than your next clean is always fine.
Get urgent medical care straight away if you have swelling in your face or neck, or trouble swallowing or breathing.
If you would like a clean, you can read about dental hygiene at Fernway or book an appointment.
This article is general information, not personal health advice. It cannot take account of your own history. See a registered clinician about your situation.
