Preventive dental care

Good oral health is essential to your overall health and wellbeing. Here are some ways you and your family can protect your teeth for life.

Brush your teeth and gums in the morning and before bed at night

Plaque is a thin, sticky film that contains many types of bacteria. It forms continually on your teeth and can cause tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath. Brushing your teeth and gums twice a day with a soft bristled, small headed toothbrush removes the plaque and helps keep your mouth clean and healthy. Parents should assist children with tooth brushing until they are at least eight years old.

Spit out fluoride toothpaste after brushing, rather than rinsing

Fluoride is added to most toothpastes to help protect against tooth decay. It strengthens your teeth, making them more resistant to acid attacks. After brushing, spit out the toothpaste but do not rinse your mouth with water. By not rinsing, your teeth will be protected by the fluoride in the toothpaste for a longer time.

Drink plain tap water

Plain tap water is the best drink for your teeth as it is does not contain sugar or acid. In most areas of South Australia, tap water contains fluoride which helps to protect against tooth decay. Rinsing with water after meals is recommended to wash away leftover food and acids. Sipping water throughout the day also helps prevent a dry mouth which can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Swap sugary foods for healthy snacks

The two main factors that cause tooth decay are plaque and sugar. Every time you have something sweet to eat or drink, your mouth makes acid. It takes about 20-30 minutes for the acid to pass. Snacking frequently throughout the day can increase the time your teeth are in contact with sugar and acid and at risk of tooth decay.

To help keep your teeth healthy, try to swap sugary foods for fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, crackers and dairy foods, and reduce soft drinks, flavoured milk, fruit juice and cordial.

Chew sugar free gum

Each time you eat it takes at least 20-30 minutes for the acids in your mouth to neutralise. You can reduce the acid attack by chewing sugar free gum between meals to stimulate saliva – the mouth’s natural defence against acid. Saliva can protect your teeth and gums when it may not be possible to brush with a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Not only does sugar free gum help improve your oral health, but it also helps freshen your breath.

Have a dental check up

Regular dental visits are important for maintaining good oral health. In South Australia, there are public and private dental services available.

SA Dental is the major public dental provider in South Australia. They provide dental services for all children under 18 years and adults with a Centrelink Pension Card or Health Care Card. For more information or to book an appointment, visit SA Dental

Dental care is also available at private dental clinics across the state. If you have private health insurance, you may be able to claim some or all the cost of your treatment.