World Smile Day, held on the first Friday in October each year, is a day when we’re all encouraged to perform an act of kindness to help someone smile. To ensure your smile is healthy and radiant this World Smile Day, the team at Bayview Dental in Perth has compiled our top tips for excellent oral health.
World Smile Day: 10 Oral Health Tips To Keep Your Smile Bright
World Smile Day is a global celebration where people around the world are encouraged to spread kindness and bring smiles to others’ faces.
Celebrated internationally, World Smile Day was created by Harvey Ball, the designer of the famous smiley face, who believed that everyone “should devote one day a year to smiles and kind acts.”
To help keep your smile as bright as possible this World Smile Day, we’ve gathered some essential tips for maintaining healthy teeth and gums for a beautiful, confident smile.
1. Brush your teeth twice a day
You likely already know that brushing twice daily is fundamental to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Regular brushing removes plaque and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Brushing your teeth before bed is particularly important as it removes the germs and food particles that have accumulated throughout the day, so don’t skip that crucial evening brush.
2. Learn the correct way to brush your teeth
Did you know there’s a proper technique for brushing your teeth to ensure effective cleaning? Many people develop less-than-ideal brushing habits over time, so it’s worth reviewing your technique.
To effectively remove plaque and debris, move your toothbrush in gentle circular motions with consistent but careful pressure. For personalised advice on proper brushing technique, speak with your Bayview Dental dentist.
3. Don’t forget to brush your tongue
While we commonly focus on brushing our teeth, comprehensive oral hygiene also includes gently brushing your tongue to remove plaque accumulation.
Cleaning your tongue along with your teeth helps prevent bad breath and reduces the risk of other oral health issues. Simply give your tongue a gentle brush with your toothbrush each time you clean your teeth.
4. Choose the right toothpaste
Using fluoride toothpaste helps keep teeth strong, healthy, and resistant to decay. However, if you have specific dental concerns, you might benefit from a specialised toothpaste.
People experiencing tooth sensitivity may find relief with sensitivity-specific toothpaste, while those concerned about staining might choose a gentle whitening formula. For tailored toothpaste recommendations, consult with your Bayview Dental team.
5. Floss, floss, floss
Ask any Perth dentist or oral health therapist for their best hygiene tip, and they’ll likely emphasise the importance of flossing. Regular flossing removes food particles and bacteria, reduces plaque accumulation, and helps decrease inflammation between teeth and along the gumline.
Try to floss once daily, ideally as part of your morning or evening brushing routine. If you’re unsure about proper flossing technique or experiencing difficulty or discomfort, ask your Bayview Dental dentist for guidance.
6. Consider using mouthwash
While mouthwash alone won’t eliminate bad breath or prevent cavities, it can be a helpful addition to your routine for fresher-feeling breath and improved oral hygiene.
Specialised mouthwashes are also available for specific conditions, such as sensitive teeth or mouth ulcers. If you’d like more information about mouthwash options, speak with your Bayview Dental team about finding the right product for your needs.
7. Drink enough water
Maintaining proper hydration by drinking at least two litres of water daily is crucial for good oral health. Water helps rinse away debris from acidic or sugary foods, preventing them from lingering on your teeth.
Adequate water intake also keeps your mouth properly hydrated and maintains optimal saliva production. Remember, herbal teas count toward your daily water intake, which can be especially helpful during Perth’s cooler months!
8. Limit sugary and acidic food and drinks
Sugary, acidic, and processed foods can damage tooth enamel—the protective outer layer of your teeth—causing it to wear down and erode. This increases your susceptibility to tooth decay and other oral health problems.
You don’t need to eliminate these foods and beverages entirely, but limiting your consumption and making healthier dietary choices will support your oral health.
9. Eat calcium-rich foods
Calcium is vital for maintaining healthy teeth and bones, so consuming calcium-rich foods is excellent for your oral health.
Good sources of calcium include dairy products like milk and cheese, oily fish such as salmon and sardines, leafy green vegetables, and almonds. Incorporating these foods into your regular diet helps ensure adequate calcium intake.
10. Visit your dentist regularly
Even with excellent oral hygiene habits at home, regular dental visits are essential. We recommend seeing your dentist at least every six months. During routine check-ups, your Bayview Dental dentist will assess your oral health, identify potential issues early, and provide treatment recommendations when necessary.
If you’re due for your regular check-up and clean, book an appointment with Bayview Dental in Claremont today. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile all year round.
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