6 Daily Habits for Healthy Teeth and Gums

You don't need to spend a lot to keep your smile healthy. Six simple daily habits — regular check-ups, brushing and flossing, replacing your brush, cutting sugar, using fluoride, and not smoking — do most of the work. Here's how.

1. Visit the dentist regularly

See a dentist at least every six months. Regular check-ups catch problems early, before they become painful or costly, and your dentist can advise on hygiene, diet, and treatment. If anxiety holds you back, see how to overcome the fear of the dentist.

2. Brush and floss properly

Brush twice a day — morning and before bed — and floss once a day. Brushing removes plaque and food; flossing reaches the gaps between teeth a brush can't.

• Brushing: use a soft, small-headed brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums, with short back-and-forth strokes over the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces.
• Flossing: use about 30cm of floss and guide it gently between each tooth and just below the gumline. See do you really need to floss every day.

3. Replace your toothbrush

Change your brush or electric head every three months, or sooner if the bristles splay — worn bristles clean less well and can be harsh on the gums. See how to clean and store your toothbrush.

4. Go easy on sugar

Sugary foods and drinks — sweets, cakes, fizzy drinks — feed the bacteria behind decay and gum disease. If you do have something sugary, brushing afterwards with fluoride toothpaste helps limit the damage.

5. Use a fluoride mouthwash

A daily fluoride mouthwash supports enamel and helps reduce plaque, alongside brushing and flossing. See the benefits of mouthwash.

6. Don't smoke

Smoking and vaping raise the risk of gum disease and oral cancer, stain teeth, and dry the mouth. Quitting is one of the most valuable things you can do for your teeth — see how smoking and vaping affect your teeth.

These habits cost little and protect a lot. Due for a visit? Book a check-up and cleaning and we'll help you keep your smile healthy.