Good oral health does not happen by chance. It is built through small daily habits that protect your teeth and gums over time.
Here are five simple things you can do every day to keep your smile healthy.
1. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Brushing your teeth in the morning and at night helps remove plaque and protect against tooth decay.
Make sure to:
Brush for at least two minutes
Use a fluoride toothpaste
Cleanall surfaces of your teeth
2. Clean between your teeth daily
A toothbrush alone cannot effectively clean between your teeth.
Using floss or interdental brushes helps remove plaque and food from these areas, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease.
3. Be mindful of sugary foods and drinks
Having sugary foods and drinks too often increases the risk of tooth decay.
Try to:
Limit sugary snacks and drinks
Avoid frequent grazing throughout the day. Give your teeth a rest.
Choose water as your main drink
4. Drink plenty of water
Water helps:
Wash away food particles
Keep your mouth hydrated
Support overall oral health
In Aotearoa New Zealand, drinking fluoridated water can also help protect your teeth.
5. Visit an oral health professional regularly
Regular check-ups help:
Detect problems early
Prevent issues from getting worse
Keep your teeth and gums healthy
Your oral health professional can also provide personalised advice to support your daily routine.
The bottom line
Healthy smiles are built through consistent daily habits.
Small changes, like brushing properly, cleaning between your teeth, and reducing sugar, can make a big difference over time.
