ORAL CARE:

how to keep your sparkling smile between dental visits

Sadly, our oral health is slipping. Earlier this year, The Australian Dental Association (ADA) found that the number of adults with periodontal pockets (a cause of tooth loss), untreated tooth decay, and tooth aches have all shot up in the past two years. And only 53 per cent of us are brushing twice a day!

Adding to this is the stress of lockdown that can impact our smiles in more ways than one. Unchecked anxiety can contribute to mouth ulcers and cold sores, says the ADA. Also, we might try coping by falling into unhealthy habits. Passing the cookie jar or pouring one more glass of wine can feel very comforting. Then there’s that all-important daily oral care, which can be overlooked when we’re out of our usual routine, and when there are so many other big worries in the world (or when we’ve had one too many of those wines).

Save your smile

So what would dentists like us to do until we can see them again?

• Get sugar savvy. Dentists aren’t worried about the fructose in your apple. The sugar that exists naturally in fruits and vegetables comes wrapped in fibre and vitamins, making it a nutritious package. It’s the “free” or added sugars we need to watch.

• Brush using fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Use a toothbrush, preferably a powered one, with soft bristles. Keep some new brush heads on hand so your bristles never get too shaggy. And remember to glide over the teeth, not to scrub or apply pressure that could cause gum recession or tooth damage. • When dentists reopen, book a check-up and clean straight away. Until then, you can still go to the dentist in an emergency, including tooth knockouts or fractures, acute pain or swelling of the face/neck/ mouth, persistent ulcers, and anything else that could cause long-term issues without immediate treatment. If your dentist isn’t available, the ADA can help. Visit ada.org.au/ findadentist. AWW Oral B 3D Whitening Therapy White Coconut Oil and Charcoal toothpaste, $11.99 each.