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Maintaining a high standard of dental hygiene is important to keeping your whole mouth healthy. A large number of problems can be avoided simply by
keeping your teeth clean and your gums healthy. On an everyday scale, you will have teeth that look and feel clean and fresh breath. But more
significantly, brushing and flossing daily can prevent a build up of plaque, which is the bacteria that causes most dental problems. Plaque forms on
your teeth every time you eat, and it can lead to problems such as gum disease, tooth decay and gingivitis, which in turn lead to the need fordental jobs such as root canal work and tooth extraction. Brushing your teeth regularly will ensure
that your gums stay healthy, hard and pink, as opposed to red, sore and bleeding. Bleeding gums are one cause of bad breath. It can also help avoid
build ups of tartar, the yellow or brown deposits you might have seen on your teeth.

How Can I Maintain Good Dental Hygiene?

All dentists in Birmingham will be able to give you personal advice on your dental health,
such as which products are best for you and what type of toothbrush you should be using. However, here are some general rules:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and especially once before you go to bed.
• Floss regularly. Some bleeding is normal when you floss, but if the bleeding does not stop, contact your dentist.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing/flossing to kill bacteria.
• Use a fluoride based toothpaste to strengthen your teeth. Try to avoid swallowing this though, and be careful of how much you give to infants, who
  should only have small amounts in case of ingestion.
• Go for regular check-ups at the dentist and get a regular professional clean.
• Avoid food and drink with a high sugar or starch content and eat more fruit and vegetables with a high water content, along with meat, fish, cheese
  and milk.