Plaque is a thin, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth.

How can plaque cause decay?

When you eat foods containing sugars and starches, the bacteria in plaque produce acids, which attack tooth enamel. The stickiness of the plaque keeps these acids in contact with your teeth. After constant acid attack, the tooth enamel breaks down forming a hole or cavity.

How can plaque cause gum disease?

As calculus forms near the gumline, the plaque underneath releases harmful poisons causing the gums to become irritated and inflamed.

How can I prevent gum disease?

It is important to remove plaque and bits of food from around your teeth as this will stop your gums from becoming inflamed and swollen, and becoming infected.

Do electric toothbrushes clean better?

Tests have shown that power toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque.

How often should I brush my teeth?

Be sure to brush thoroughly with a fluoride toothpaste last thing at night and at least one other time during the day.

How often should I change my toothbrush?

It is important to change your toothbrush every two to three months, or sooner if the filaments become worn. When bristles become splayed, they do not clean properly.

How much toothpaste should I use?

Children under three should use a smear, and children over three, a pea-sized blob of toothpaste.

How should I clean my dentures?

The general rule is: brush, soak and brush again. Clean your dentures over a bowl of water in case you drop them.

Caring for my teeth and gums

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Toothbrushes

Cleaning between teeth

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