Five tips to have healthy teeth for life

This is sponsored content for Travis Dental.

They chew, they bite, they tear and grind. They are one of the gatekeepers into our body and they have the power to warm a heart when you flash them. They are your teeth and as adults, once they’re gone, you can’t grow them back. 

So with all the wear and tear we place on them, here are some tips to ensure your chompers last as long as possible, and in the best condition.  

1. Clean your teeth

Keeping your teeth clean is one of the biggest factors in preventing tooth decay. Dr Emma Travis, dentist at Travis Dental, says it’s essential.

“Brush properly for two minutes twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily,” Dr Travis said. 

While mouthwash tastes nice, it’s more of an optional extra - brushing and flossing are the real plaque removers.

Children should be taught how to brush once they have a few to clean, but they may need guidance until they are around seven or eight. And an early routine sets up good habits for the years to come.

2. Regular check-ups are essential

Just like you service your car, your body and teeth need care and attention to last the distance. Twice-yearly check-ups with your dentist will give your teeth that extra clean and they can take a closer look at what’s happening behind those pearly whites. 

“A dentist visit can screen you for dental decay, gum diseases, soft tissue lesions, they can give you feedback and customise your oral hygiene routine, they can give you advice on any treatment and options available if you need treatment, they are happy to work with you over years and a lifetime to keep your teeth healthy and in working order,” Dr Travis said. 

And check-ups aren’t just for adults - children should start visiting the dentist by the time they are two.

“Baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth as they help with spacing for the adult teeth, eating, speech development, communication, smiling and poor teeth can affect confidence and self esteem,” Dr Travis said. 

3. Take another look at your diet

The Australian Dental Association released a report in 2014 saying that almost a quarter of children have decay in their permanent teeth before the age of 14. And the main culprit? Sugar. It’s lurking in the most unexpected places: sauces, flavoured yoghurts, dried fruit and juice. Acidity in wine and fizzy drinks can cause erosion too. Try to eat less processed foods and consume plenty of water. 

4. Overall health is important

We know smoking is bad for your health and stains your teeth, and no surprise, it’s a leading cause of oral cancer. 

“Smoking causes changes to the mucosa and gums, making those prone to gum disease more at risk and it can lead to soft tissue changes that could turn cancerous,” Dr Travis warns. 

Illicit drug use isn’t without harm either. The drugs are often acidic and people using them also turn to sugar and poor food choices more.

5. A little bit of protection

If you play contact sports, it might be worth investing in a mouth guard. Dr Travis advises “children to wear mouth guards at training too as accidents can happen anytime.”

And using your teeth as a bottle opener? Forget it!

“Don’t use teeth to chew anything other than food: crunching ice, opening bottles, tearing packets or string can all cause damage.”

Rethink a lip or tongue piercing too - they can break teeth and there’s a risk of soft tissue and nerve damage.

This is sponsored content for Travis Dental.