Myths & Facts

You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear, or every three months, whichever comes first. It is also very important to change toothbrushes after you've had a cold, since the bristles can collect germs that can lead to reinfection.

Patients with tooth sensitivity feel pain when they consume items that are hot or cold, sweet or acidic. This comes from thinned tooth enamel, which doesn't protect the tooth pulp or dentin from exposure to extreme temperatures. In some patients, this may be a result of: Receding gums Tooth grinding during sleep Chipped or fractured teeth Dental Cavity Tooth whitening Orthodontics and fillings Your dentist will examine the affected teeth and recommend treatment to reduce your sensitivity.

Cosmetic mouthwashes are aimed at freshening breath and maintaining a healthy color, but they may contain fluoride to help fight cavities as well. Therapeutic rinses can also treat conditions such as gingivitis, tooth sensitivity and inflammation caused by chemotherapy. For more advanced conditions, prescription mouthwashes often contain chlorhexidine gluconate to kill bacteria that cause bleeding, inflammation and the formation of plaque.

Brushing your teeth thoroughly after eating cleans recent sugary foods and existing bacteria off of your teeth,Consider the following dietary adjustments: Eat a nutritious and balanced diet of grains, fruits, vegetables, protein and low-fat dairy. Check food labels for "hidden" sugars. Limit between-meal snacks. Avoid sugary foods that stay in your mouth for a long time, like hard, sticky or chewy varieties of candy. Offer healthy snacks, such as cheese, fruits, yogurt, peanut butter, chocolate milk and sugarless gum. Save your sugary treats for the end of a meal or before a tooth-brushing session, rather than throughout the day. Substitute water for sugar-laden sodas and fruit juices.

Dentists recommends booking the first dental visit of your child once their first tooth erupts – or, at the latest, their first birthday. This helps your dentist catch potential problems that can affect the child's overall health and well-being as more teeth erupt over time.