Good oral health habits

Colgate, Plunket and the New Zealand Dental Association are promoting positive tips for good oral healthcare including:

• brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, especially after breakfast and before bedtime;
• change your brush every 3 months;
• teach your kids the importance of brushing and make it a fun family routine;
• use a gentle, circular motion at the gum line (don’t scrub!);
• get into an everyday oral care habit to maintain good health;
• children aged five and over can floss every day – parents can help their kids with this until they are able to do it by themselves;
• adults should use a rinse when they can’t brush (or as advised by their dentist);
• it is important to keep in mind that the risk of tooth decay and gum problems can change at different times in you and your family’s lives for many reasons; therefore,
• visit your dental professional regularly; and,

• eat healthy foods and avoid sugar

“By providing parents with up to date information and techniques, they are well prepared to help their children develop good oral health habits from a young age,” says Erin Beatson, clinical advisor, Plunket.

“With good role modeling from their parents and an understanding of why it is important and how to maintain good oral health, children are more likely to continue looking after their teeth into adult life.

“It’s not good enough that nearly half of all children have developed dental cavities by the time they turn five. It’s up to us parents to stop that dental decay from happening,” says David Crum NZDA’s chief executive officer.

Keep an eye out for more information, promotions and tips for keeping your family’s teeth in top condition from Colgate, Plunket and the New Zealand Dental Association.