Oral hygiene tips for infants, children, teenagers, adults and senior citizens

Begin early: Clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth even before the first tooth appears. Once teeth emerge, use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush with water.

Avoid bottle decay: Never put your baby to bed with a bottle containing anything other than water to prevent cavities.

First dental visit: Schedule the first dental visit by the first birthday or when the first tooth appears. This helps in early detection of potential issues.

Limit sugar: Avoid sugary foods and drinks. If the baby uses a pacifier, avoid dipping it in sugary substances.

Healthy snacks: Introduce healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables to promote healthy teeth.

Children (4-12 years)

Regular brushing: Teach children to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste.

Flossing: Introduce flossing as soon as two teeth touch. Supervise to ensure proper technique.

Routine check-ups: Ensure regular dental check-ups every six months for professional cleaning and monitoring.

Balanced diet: Encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and dairy products for strong teeth.

Limit sugary treats: Limit the consumption of candies, sodas and juices that can cause tooth decay.

Teenagers (13-19 years)

Consistent routine: Maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine. Consider using an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning.

Orthodontic care: If wearing braces, follow specific oral care instructions to prevent plaque build-up and cavities around brackets.

Avoid tobacco: Educate about the dangers of tobacco use, which can lead to gum disease and oral cancers.

Healthy choices: Promote healthy snacking habits and limit intake of sugary and acidic foods that can erode enamel.

Hydration: Encourage drinking plenty of water, especially fluoridated water to help wash away food particles and bacteria.

Adults (20-64 years)

Regular care: Continue brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Consider using mouthwash for additional protection.

Dental visits: Regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings are crucial to maintaining oral health and detecting issues early.

Manage stress: Stress can lead to teeth grinding (bruxism). Using a mouthguard at night can prevent damage.

Balanced diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus for strong teeth and bones.

Limit harmful substances: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, which can lead to gum disease and oral cancer.

Senior citizens (65+ years)

Gentle care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent gum irritation and ensure regular brushing and flossing.

Dry mouth management: Many medications cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of decay. Use saliva substitutes and drink water frequently.

Dentures: Clean dentures daily and remove them at night to allow gums to rest.

Nutrient-rich foods: Focus on nutrient-rich foods that are easy to chew, such as dairy products, cooked vegetables and lean proteins.

Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to help maintain saliva production and overall oral health.

General tips for all ages

Fluoride: Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Proper technique: Ensure proper brushing technique—gentle, circular motions covering all surfaces of the teeth and gums.

Replace toothbrushes: Replace toothbrushes or toothbrushes heads every three to four months or sooner if bristles are frayed.

Limit sugar: Minimise consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages.

Healthy snacks: Opt for teeth-friendly snacks like cheese, nuts and crunchy vegetables.

By following these oral hygiene tips, individuals can maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives, contributing to their overall well-being.