Toothache: understanding the signal and when to see a dentist
A cavity, a crack, inflammation of the pulp or a gum problem can cause pain.
Read the articleSugary drinks and brushing: useful guidelines
Bacteria in plaque use sugars and produce acids that encourage tooth decay.
Published by Dr Hafça Moqadem, Dental surgeon in Marrakech1 min read
Article contents
In brief
- Bacteria in plaque use sugars and produce acids that encourage tooth decay.
- Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste for about 2 minutes, twice a day, especially before bed.
- A drink can be both sugary and acidic.
Frequency matters too
Bacteria in plaque use sugars and produce acids that encourage tooth decay. Having small sugary snacks or drinks throughout the day means more time exposed to sugar. Choose water between meals and limit sugary snacking.
Keep a regular routine
Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste for about 2 minutes, twice a day, especially before bed. Also clean between your teeth using a method suited to you. Rinsing with water does not replace this cleaning.
Avoid brushing straight after an acidic drink
A drink can be both sugary and acidic. Do not turn every glass into an immediate brushing session. After acid exposure, ask the dentist how to protect your enamel and when to brush. New sensitivity deserves an examination.
Sources and references
To find out more about the general information in this article:
The visual guide
From assessment to treatment: the role of each stage
Principles to help you prepare your questions. The assessment makes it possible to know what suits your situation.
| Item | Principle | To clarify at the clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Examine | Listen to your discomfort and examine the mouth. | Additional tests are offered if necessary. |
| Explain | Compare the options and their limits. | The treatment depends on the diagnosis and on your expectations. |
| Follow up | Check the treatment and adapt your routine. | The follow-up schedule is personalised. |
A daily guide
Brushing time, in practice.
The NHS recommends about 2 minutes of brushing, twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste.
2minutes
×2times a day
=4minutes a day
Source: NHS, How to keep your teeth clean. A prevention guide, with no prediction of an individual result.
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