How to Maintain Healthy Teeth and Gums

Healthy teeth and gums are built through simple habits repeated every day. There are no shortcuts, but there is also nothing complicated about the basics. This guide brings together practical advice you can start using today.

Brush twice a day — properly

Brush for about two minutes, twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste. Technique matters more than force.

• Use a soft-bristled brush and replace it every three months or when bristles splay
• Angle the bristles towards the gumline
• Use small, gentle movements — scrubbing hard can damage gums and enamel
• Clean the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of every tooth
• Spit out toothpaste after brushing rather than rinsing with water

Brushing last thing at night is particularly important, because saliva flow decreases during sleep.

Clean between your teeth

A toothbrush cannot reach the tight spaces between teeth, where plaque builds up and where decay and gum disease often start. Clean between your teeth once a day using floss or interdental brushes. Your dentist or hygienist can recommend the right size and technique.

Watch how often you have sugar

Every time you eat or drink something sugary, bacteria in plaque produce acid that attacks enamel. Frequency matters more than quantity.

• Keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes
• Choose water between meals
• Be mindful of sweetened tea, coffee and soft drinks sipped throughout the day
• Acidic drinks such as colas and some juices can also erode enamel

Avoid tobacco

Smoking and chewing tobacco are linked to gum disease, staining, bad breath, delayed healing and oral cancer. Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your mouth and general health. Ask your doctor about support to stop.

Know the signs of gum disease

Gum disease often develops quietly. Watch for:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums pulling away from teeth
• Loose teeth

Bleeding gums are not normal and are worth discussing with your dentist.

Protect your teeth

• Wear a mouthguard for contact sports
• Ask about a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth
• Do not use your teeth to open packets or bottles

Look after appliances and restorations

If you have braces, aligners, implants, crowns or bridges, you may need extra cleaning steps. See our guides on braces care, aligner care and implant aftercare.

Visit your dentist regularly

Regular check-ups allow problems to be found early, often before they cause pain. Professional cleaning removes hardened deposits (tartar) that brushing cannot. Your dentist will recommend how often you should attend based on your needs.

When to seek help sooner

Do not wait for your next routine visit if you notice pain, swelling, a broken tooth or a sore that does not heal within two weeks. Our article on common causes of toothache explains more.

Small habits, big difference

Consistency is the key. Brushing well, cleaning between teeth, limiting sugar frequency and attending check-ups together make a lasting difference. Explore more in our patient resources, or book a check-up.