Oral hygiene done properly

Good oral care takes little time, but it does need a few steps that fit together. What matters is not only how often you brush, but also with what and in which places. Here you will find the essentials at a glance.

Which toothbrush suits you

Choose a brush with soft to medium bristles. Hard bristles do not clean more thoroughly, but they do irritate the gums. Replace the brush roughly every three months, and sooner if the bristles start to splay. After a cold, a change is sensible too.

Brush twice a day for around two minutes, with small circular movements and little pressure, working from the gum towards the tooth.

Why the spaces between your teeth need their own aids

Between two teeth there are surfaces that sit closely together. The toothbrush does not reach there, its bristles are too thick for that. It is in exactly these places that decay, that is holes in the tooth, and gum inflammation often begin. Clean the spaces between your teeth once a day, ideally in the evening, with dental floss or with small brushes, known as interdental brushes.

If the gums bleed at first, that is usually a sign of inflammation. Keep at it, in many cases things settle down after a few days. We are glad to show you which size suits the spaces between your teeth.

Toothpaste, tongue and the first baby teeth

Use a toothpaste with fluoride. Fluoride hardens the enamel, that is the outer layer of the tooth, and helps it stand up to acids. A coating builds up on the tongue that can contribute to bad breath. Clean the tongue gently once a day, with a tongue scraper or with the brush.

In children, care begins as soon as the first tooth has come through. Brush it with a soft children's toothbrush and a toothpaste for children. The right amount depends on their age, and we tell you at an appointment what makes sense for your child.

What to make of antibacterial mouth rinses

Antibacterial rinses can help for a while after a procedure or when the gums are inflamed. They are intended for limited use, usually over a few weeks. Used long term, they upset the natural balance in the mouth. We tell you what makes sense in your case and for how long.

We are glad to check with you

Whether your care routine reaches everywhere shows most clearly in the mouth. At an appointment we go through the places that are often missed with you, and the aids that suit them. Just ask us, we take the time.