It is important we take good care of our teeth to help prevent problems from cavities to oral cancer. There are important steps we can take to help maintain good dental health and check ups at the dentist should be taken regularly. Here is a guide to what you can do daily to improve your dental health.

Your teeth should be brushed at least twice a day. This is best done after meals with a toothpaste which includes fluoride.

Use a toothbrush with soft bristles as it will be gentler on your gums.
Hold the toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth and use short back-and-forth motions.
Make sure you brush all areas of your teeth.
Brush for about 2 minutes
Brush your tongue.
Do not brush vigorously as this can irritate the gums.
Your toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months. If it has become frayed it should be replaced sooner.

Although it is important to brush your teeth regularly, your toothbrush is not able to reach all the tight spaces between your teeth or the areas under your gum line. This means that plaque can build up and affect your dental health. These particles can be removed by flossing.

Pull the ends of the floss against the front and back surface of the tooth so that it forms a "C" as it wraps around.
Gently pull the floss from the gum line to the top of the tooth.
Floss the back of your teeth.
As you progress through your teeth, use fresh floss.
Try waxed floss if you find it hard to get the floss through your teeth.
Try using a floss holder if you find it hard to control the floss.

Here are other things you can do to improve your dental health.

Reduce plaque between your teeth with mouth wash. This will help to freshen your breath to.
Remove food particles with food irrigators or devices which aim a stream of water at your teeth.

It is very important to receive check-ups with your dentist every six months. Those at higher risk of oral diseases should receive check ups more regularly. Regular check ups will help keep your teeth your teeth and gums healthy. Also, any early problems such as gum disease, oral cancer and cavities can de found by the dentist.

Any of the following symptoms mean you should book an appointment whether you are due for a check up or not.

Gums which are red, swollen or tender.
Bleeding gums.
Gums which pull away from your teeth and make them seem longer.
Having pus around your teeth and gums when you press onto your gums.
A bad taste in your

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