Oral Health Tips
Brushing
Teeth should be brushed in an orderly manner to make sure that all areas are well cleaned.
Hold the toothbrush at 45º angle to the gum and from gum to tooth. Divide upper and
lower teeth separately into following areas front, left and right. Each area must be brushed
with 8 – 10 strokes. A through tooth brushing routine will take at least 3 minutes. Brush at least
twice daily, especially once before bedtime.
Tips to select a toothbrush
Choose a soft or electric toothbrush with a small head. This will help you reach the back teeth and areas
between the tongue and lower back molars. Select a toothbrush with a comfortable non-slip
handle. This is easier to hold and helps in brushing more effectively.
Choose a toothbrush with soft rounded bristles.
Hard and stiff bristles can injure your gums and wear down the outer layer of your teeth
(enamel) faster than normal.
Replace the toothbrush every three months or soon after the bristles
starts to wear out. Worn out bristles can damage your gums.
Step by step guide to tooth brushing
1. Start by brushing the outer surfaces of the upper teeth
2. Move systematically from the left to the front and finally to the right
3. Repeat the same steps for the lower teeth
4. After brushing all the outer surfaces of the upper and lower teeth, brush the inner surfaces of the teeth
5. Start with the upper teeth. Move systematically from the left, to the front and finally to the right
6. Repeat the same steps for the lower teeth
7. Finally brush the biting surfaces of the upper then the lower teeth
Remember to use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Teenagers should use standard strength toothpaste, not a low fluoride product.
Flossing and Mouth Washes
Flossing is necessary for removing food that is caught between your teeth and your gums where your brush won’t reach.
Interproximal Brushes can be used if flossing is difficult.
Fluoride mouth washes and tooth mousses are advised for many patients, particularly teenagers and young adults,
as Christchurch water is not fluoridated.
