Oral health tips for adults
- Visit your dentist: At least every 2 years, even if you wear dentures or have no natural teeth.
- Brush twice a day: For 2 minutes, last thing at night and once more during the day.
- Use fluoride toothpaste: Choose one with 1350–1500 ppm fluoride. Your dentist may recommend a stronger one.
- Toothbrush tips: Use a small-headed brush and replace it every 3 months. Remove dentures before brushing natural teeth.
- Spit, don’t rinse: After brushing, spit out toothpaste but don’t rinse—this keeps fluoride on your teeth longer.
- Use mouthwash separately: Not straight after brushing.
- Care for dentures:
- Rinse after meals
- Brush daily with a denture brush and mild soap or paste
- Soak in denture cleaner
- Leave dentures out overnight
- Cut down on sugar: Avoid sugary snacks and drinks between meals and before bed.
- Stop smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and mouth cancer. Alcohol adds to the risk.
