24/10/2012
Dental advice for adults
All adults can maintain good dental health throughout adulthood by adopting good oral hygiene practices and by having a healthy diet.
Common oral health conditions in adults can include tooth decay (dental caries), gum disease, tooth wear, dry mouth and tooth sensitivity. Decay in adults can be common around fillings and between teeth.
Eat well
Proper nutrition is necessary for healthy teeth and gums. Eating a well-balanced diet gives gum tissues and teeth the important nutrients and minerals needed to stay strong and resist infections. Soft, sticky foods tend to remain on the grooves and between teeth.
Eat well
Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods.
If you eat sugary foods and sweets, limit their intake (especially between meals).
When you do snack, choose nutritious foods such as cheese and dry crackers, vegetables, natural yogurt or fresh fruit.
Drink well
Drink plenty of tap water.
Avoid acidic and sugary drinks such as soft drinks, sports drinks, cordials, fruit juices and flavoured or carbonated water. If consumed, these are best to have with meals rather than between.
Choose plain milk instead of flavoured milk.
Clean well
Use fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day - especially before you go to sleep at night.
Use floss to clean between your teeth.