National Love Teeth Day: health department urges yearly check-ups and holds oral health carnival on 11 October
For National Love Teeth Day the Department of Health reminded the public to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss, cut down on sugary food and drinks and have a yearly dental check. It said its 2021 oral health survey showed less tooth decay and older people keeping more of their teeth. A free oral health carnival runs at Plaza Hollywood, Diamond Hill, on 11 October from noon to 6pm.
What it means for you
The 11 October carnival is an easy family outing to learn about oral care; government dental schemes cover babies, pupils, teenagers and older people.
Editors' take: the background
The fluoride in toothpaste helps enamel remineralise and resist decay. After brushing, just spit out the foam rather than rinsing with lots of water, so the fluoride stays in the mouth longer.
Decay depends on how often you eat sugar: after each sugary snack, plaque produces acid for a while. Keeping treats to mealtimes is kinder to teeth than grazing all day.
Key points
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss
- Cut down on frequent sugary snacks and drinks
- Have a dental check-up every year
- Oral health carnival, Plaza Hollywood, 11 October, 12pm–6pm
Source: Department of Health
This is a news summary written by our editors, not medical advice. Please refer to the original source and seek professional advice for your own situation.
Questions readers ask
Should I rinse with water after brushing?
Spit out the foam but skip the big rinse, so the fluoride stays on your teeth for longer.
Why have a yearly check if nothing hurts?
Early decay and gum disease usually cause no pain. Regular checks catch them early, when treatment is generally simpler and cheaper.
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