Looking after your teeth and gums

Daily oral care

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before bed, for about two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth once a day with floss or interdental brushes, where a toothbrush cannot reach.
• Avoid frequent sugary food and drinks; choose water between meals.
• Replace your toothbrush about every three months, or sooner if the bristles are worn.

Regular check-ups

Tooth and gum disease often causes no symptoms at first. Regular check-ups help problems to be spotted early. You can agree on a check-up interval with your dentist based on your oral health.

If you wear removable dentures

• Take your denture out every day and clean it with a soft brush and mild soapy water or a denture cleaner; toothpaste can scratch the surface.
• Unless your dentist advises otherwise, take your denture out at night and keep it in clean water so it does not dry out.
• Do not wash your denture in hot water, as it may lose its shape.
• If you notice pain, sores, rubbing or a crack in the denture, do not try to adjust it yourself; see your dentist.

Crowns, bridges and implant-supported prostheses

• The edges of crowns and bridges and the area under a bridge should be cleaned with a floss threader or interdental brushes.
• The gums around dental implants need daily care and regular check-ups, just like natural teeth.
• If you clench or grind your teeth, be sure to tell your dentist.

When to see a dentist

• Toothache that does not go away, or swelling in the face or gums
• Gums that bleed often
• A sore or change of colour in the mouth lasting more than two weeks
• A poorly fitting, broken or painful denture

This information is general advice. Please consult your dentist for care and treatment suited to your own situation.