The foundation of long-term dental health is what happens at home between appointments. Here is the evidence-based guide to effective daily dental care from Dr. Gadde at Accord Dental Practice in Camberley.
Brushing Technique
Brush twice daily - last thing at night and at one other time during the day. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste (1,450 ppm fluoride for adults). Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gumline and use small circular motions - do not scrub horizontally across the teeth as this causes enamel wear and gum recession over time.
🪥 Electric toothbrushes are significantly more effective than manual brushing at removing plaque, particularly around the gumline. If you do not use one, we recommend making the switch.
Do Not Rinse After Brushing
This surprises many patients - but rinsing with water immediately after brushing washes away the concentrated fluoride left on your teeth by the toothpaste. Spit out the excess toothpaste, but do not rinse. This allows fluoride to continue remineralising enamel for several minutes after brushing.
Flossing - Why and How
Brushing cleans approximately 60% of tooth surfaces. The remaining 40% - the contact points between teeth - can only be accessed by flossing or interdental cleaning. Gum disease and interdental cavities originate in precisely these areas. Floss once daily, ideally before bed, wrapping the floss in a C-shape around each tooth and moving it gently below the gumline.
Interdental Brushes
For patients with larger gaps between teeth, or those with crowns, bridges, or implants, interdental brushes (TePe brushes) are more effective than floss. Size the brush correctly - it should fit snugly between the teeth with gentle resistance. Ask our hygienist to recommend the right size at your next appointment.
Mouthwash - When and Which
Fluoride mouthwash (such as Colgate Fluorigard) used at a different time to brushing - for example after lunch - provides an additional fluoride boost. Avoid using mouthwash immediately after brushing as this dilutes the toothpaste fluoride. Antibacterial mouthwashes (chlorhexidine) are useful short-term during active gum disease treatment but should not be used long-term without dental advice.
Diet and Dental Health
Frequency of sugar consumption matters more than total amount. Every time you consume sugar or acidic food/drink, your mouth becomes acidic for approximately 30 - 40 minutes and enamel softens. Limit sugary snacks to mealtimes. Fizzy drinks - including diet varieties - are highly acidic and should be minimised. See our article on the effects of fizzy drinks on teeth.
Our hygienist team at Accord Dental Practice in Camberley can provide personalised oral hygiene instruction at your appointment. Book a hygiene appointment in Camberley.