Cheat sheet Tooth easy!

Getting the best from your smile, one floss at a time, because the basics are what keep our teeth beautifully healthy.

We asked cosmetic dentist Dr Gamer Verdian from The Dental Lounge to lift our daily oral care game.

Brushing

If brushing twice a day is good, is three or four times better? “Yes, with caution. Angle a soft toothbrush at 45 degrees to the gums and use circular motions to brush gently. However, most people use medium or hard toothbrushes and a scrubbing motion that can wear teeth and gums.” Should we use mouthwash, too? “Mouthwash isn’t necessary unless prescribed for high levels of tooth decay, though the refreshed feeling afterwards is a huge plus. Natural mouthwashes can be just as good.” What about tongue scraping? “Tongue scraping or brushing should be done every time we brush our teeth. It can be a cause of bad breath. Also, get a quality check-up and clean. Dental cavities or gum disease can give you terrible breath that no amount of brushing or flossing can overcome.”

The edit

1. Oral B 3D White Whitening Therapy Toothpaste, $11.99 each. 2. Frank Green Large Ceramic Cup with straw, $49.95.

Flossing

“Waxed floss is the gold standard. A good addition is an interdental brush to clean the bigger spaces that can catch plaque and food. Toothpicks are a big no-no. They can damage your teeth and cause gums to recede.” If flossing hurts, or causes bleeding, should you press on? “Yes! Pain is usually a sign of inflammation or infection. You really need to get in

there for one to two weeks until the gum becomes pink and healthy. If there is still significant pain and bleeding, see your dentist.” What oral care habits do the most teeth-conscious people have? “They take their time! A good brushing session ideally involves a quality electric toothbrush and should take at least two minutes. When flossing, saw back and forth at least three times on each side of the tooth.”

Eating & drinking

What foods and drinks should we consume? “Fibrous and abrasive vegetables are the best. Celery and carrot will give you the most help in keeping teeth clean. Oil pulling with coconut oil is popular and can be useful, too. Coffee without sugar is not too bad, it just stains your teeth. Try drinking it with a straw. Tap water is best and has the benefit of fluoride (in most states). All in all, moderation is key.”