April is a National Oral Health Month. Taking good care of your teeth and gums will help prevent tooth loss and keep the rest of your body healthy. Below are five tips to help you take proper care of your teeth and gums:
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Use a soft or extra soft toothbrush. Softer toothbrushes are effective in removing plaque, but not abrasive enough to cause erosion to the tooth enamel.
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If possible, use a power toothbrush as they are more effective at removing plaque than a manual toothbrush.
- Choose your toothbrush size based on the size of your mouth. If you have a small mouth, a brush with a smaller head, or even a children’s toothbrush, would be best.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. It is also a good practice to replace it after you have been sick with a viral or bacterial illness to avoid a possibility of reinfection as germs can stay on the bristles.
- Remember to also brush your tongue as it harbours harmful bacteria. Place your brush on the tongue and sweep forward a few times. You can also use a tongue scraper.
