Brushing
- Brush your teeth twice a day – last thing at night before bed and one other time during the day.
- Use fluoridated toothpaste containing 1350-1500ppm (part per millions) fluoride.
- Spit out after brushing and do not rinse.
- Use a fluoride mouth rinse (alcohol free) daily at a different time to tooth-brushing.
- Disclosing tablets can help to indicate areas that are being missed by tooth-brushing.
- Do not brush your teeth immediately after eating/drinking, it will wear off the teeth enamel as its soft during this time.
Diet
- Frequency and amount of sugary foods/drinks should be reduced, and should be kept to mealtimes only.
- Acidic foods/drinks should be limited, and be kept to mealtimes only.
- Apply fluoride varnish to teeth twice a year by dentists or trained dental health professionals.
When you need/have an orthodontics treatment
- You will need a good oral hygiene before and during the orthodontics treatment.
- High sugary and acidic foods and drinks and poor cleaning may lead to permanent damage to the teeth.
- Use inter-dental brushes between and around the brace and your teeth.
- Regularly visit your dentist as required, your orthodontist will not carry out the routine check-up like your dentist would do.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath is a common problem that can affect anyone at any age. About one in four people are thought to have bad breath (halitosis) on a regular basis so if you are worried about this you are not alone!
What causes bad breath?
Bad breath can be the result of numerous things, but it’s usually caused by poor oral hygiene. If bacteria builds up in your mouth, it can cause your breath to smell.
Bacteria break down pieces of food in the mouth, releasing unpleasant-smelling gas. Any food trapped in your teeth will be broken down by bacteria, causing bad breath.
Persistent bad breath can sometimes be a sign of gum disease.
Eating strongly flavoured foods, such as onions and garlic, can also cause your breath to smell, as can smoking and drinking a lot of alcohol. Occasionally, bad breath can occur following an infection or illness, or as a result of taking certain types of medication.
What can I do about it?
Good oral hygiene is a good place to start. Please see Bromley Healthcare’s leaflet Oral health tips for teenagers for some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Public Health England offer the following information about preventing tooth decay:
NHS Choices Links