Home care

Brushing

Brush your teeth twice a day
Use a good quality small headed brush and replace as soon as the bristles splay ( normally after 2-3 months)
Use a pea sized amount of a fluoride toothpaste
Brush using a gentle circular motion aimed and angled towards the gum margin
Don't brush after eating "bad" foods - recent research suggests this can wear down the enamel.
Don't rinse after brushing ,especially in the evening, as this allows the enamel to absorb more fluoride from the toothpaste
Electric brushes are often recommended, please ask our advice

At Diamond House we stock a large range of recommended dental and oral hygiene products.

Flossing

This is an essential but often neglected aspect of homecare
It prevents gum disease and tooth decay in the in the area between the teeth where a brush cannot reach
Floss daily
If you find it difficult, concentrate on the front teeth initially and move backwards as you become more proficient
Expect increased bleeding initially but do not let this deter you
Our team can advise you on how to floss and what type of floss or tape would suit you best

Interdental aids

There are many other aids available, which are recommended in certain situations. You may find these easier to use if flossing proves difficult. These include

Spiral brushes
Waterjet
Flossets
Superfloss
Interdental brushes

Mouthrinses

Mouthrinses are often a useful adjunct to your homecare regime but are not a replacement for good oral hygiene.

Fluoride rinses are recommended for anyone with an ongoing dental caries problem (tooth decay), alcohol free if possible
Antibacterial rinses can help to reduce the amount of bacteria present either to reduce decay (triclosan) or minimize gum disease (chlorhexidine)
Some rinses may combine these features, please ask our advice as to whether they could help you