Nutil

Oral Health

Mouth and dental hygiene practices

Oral Health

Daily Brushing

Electric toothbrushes can be more effective for some people, but proper technique matters more than brush typeⓘ.

Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is the foundation of good oral health[2].

Hard brushing and stiff bristles can damage tooth enamel and gum tissue[3]. Use a soft-bristled brush with gentle circular motions for 2 minutes.

Cleaning between teeth daily is essential for preventing gum disease[4].

Interdental brushesⓘ are often more effective than floss for most people, especially those with larger gaps between teeth.

Tongue Cleaning

The tongue harbours significant bacteria that contribute to bad breath (halitosis). Tongue cleaning can reduce oral bacteria and improve breath freshnessⓘ.

Gently scrape or brush the tongue from back to front 2-3 times after brushing teeth.

Sugar and Tooth Decay

Sugar consumption is the primary dietary cause of tooth decay[7].

The sugar industry historically influenced dental research to downplay sugar's role in tooth decay[8].

Frequency of sugar consumption matters more than total amountⓘ. Limiting sugary snacks between meals reduces acid attacks on teeth.

Gum Disease

Periodontal diseaseⓘ affects nearly half of adults over 30.

Gum disease is caused by bacterial biofilm accumulation but worsened by the body's inflammatory response[11].

Early gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible with improved oral hygieneⓘ.

Mouthwash

Antiseptic mouthwashes can reduce plaque when used as an adjunct to brushing[13].

Chlorhexidineⓘ is the most effective anti-plaque agent but is typically reserved for short-term therapeutic use.

Mouthwash does not replace brushing and flossing—it's a supplement, not a substitute.

Dry Mouth

Saliva plays a crucial protective role in oral healthⓘ. Dry mouth (xerostomia) increases risk of cavities and gum disease.

Common causes include medications (antihistamines, antidepressants), mouth breathing, and certain medical conditions. Stay hydrated and consider sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.

Bad Breath

Most bad breath (halitosis) originates in the mouth, not the stomach. Volatile sulphur compounds produced by bacteria cause the unpleasant odourⓘ.

Good oral hygiene—including tongue cleaning—addresses most cases. Persistent bad breath despite good hygiene may indicate gum disease or other health issues.

Regular Checkups

Regular dental visits are associated with better long-term oral health outcomes[17].

Smoking is the strongest modifiable risk factor for tooth loss[18].

Early childhood dental care programmes are cost-effective[19].

Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods often results from exposed dentin (the layer beneath enamel) due to enamel erosion, gum recession, or aggressive brushing.

Desensitising toothpastes containing potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride can helpⓘ. If sensitivity persists, consult a dentist—it may indicate decay or cracks.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Chronic teeth grinding can damage enamel, cause jaw pain, and lead to tooth fracturesⓘ.

A dentist can fit a night guard to protect teeth. Managing stress and avoiding caffeine before bed may also help.

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References

  1. Alsumait A et al. (2021). Effectiveness of school-based oral health promotion programmes: A systematic review. PLOS ONE. [DOI]
  2. After T et al. (2017). Toothbrush abrasivity in a long-term simulation on human dentin depends on brushing mode and bristle arrangement. PLOS ONE. [DOI]
  3. Martinez-Canut P et al. (2016). Access to Interdental Brushing in Periodontal Healthy Young Adults. PLOS ONE. [DOI]
  4. Bernabe E et al. (2014). Obesity and Dental Decay: Inference on the Role of Dietary Sugar. PLOS ONE. [DOI]
  5. Kearns CE et al. (2015). Sugar Industry Influence on the Scientific Agenda of the National Institute of Dental Research. PLOS Medicine. [DOI]
  6. Hajishengallis G (2015). Periodontal Diseases: Bug Induced, Host Promoted. PLOS Pathogens. [DOI]
  7. Garcia-Gargallo M et al. (2015). Antiplaque Effect of Essential Oils and Chlorhexidine on Oral Biofilm Growth. PLOS ONE. [DOI]
  8. Kuo FC et al. (2016). Frequent Dental Scaling Is Associated with a Reduced Risk of Periprosthetic Infection. PLOS ONE. [DOI]
  9. Tsakos G et al. (2019). Risk factors for tooth loss in adults: A population-based prospective cohort study. PLOS ONE. [DOI]
  10. Anopa Y et al. (2015). Improving Child Oral Health: Cost Analysis of a National Nursery Toothbrushing Programme. PLOS ONE. [DOI]