A Healthier You > Fluoride

What can I do now?

How to brush your teeth diagram

Dentist, toothbrush & paste image To ensure your family has the healthiest teeth possible, the following steps should be taken in conjunction with drinking fluoridated water:

	Eat a healthy diet: - Queensland Health A Healthier You, Food and Nutrition - Go for 2 and 5
	Brush thoroughly with a fluoride toothpaste and help your children to brush
	Floss teeth daily
	Have regular dental check-ups Adults, young people and children should have a thorough dental check-up about once a year. Your dentist may suggest more regular checks if you need additional care. A child is usually ready for their first dental check from around 1 year of age.
	Visit Queensland Health's Oral Health website for more information

Linking oral health with general health

	Happy Teeth Program
	Germ Busters
	Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flip Charts
	Learn more about how to help your children have Healthy Teeth for Life (DVD available from your local library)

top of page

Q) What sort of toothbrush should I use?

A) A small, soft bristle toothbrush is best as it can get into the hard to reach places around the back teeth. Don't scrub your teeth, as this will wear away the enamel. The tips of the bristles do all the cleaning, so don't press so hard that the bristles bend away from the teeth. If your new toothbrush goes shaggy within a few weeks you are pushing too hard on the bristles.

Q) How often should I replace my toothbrush?

A) Change your toothbrush about every 3 months, or sooner if it becomes shaggy. To help remember when to change your brush, get into the habit of changing with the seasons or school holidays.

Did You Know?

Toothbrush bristles were originally made from hog and cow hair.

top of page

Last Updated: 18 October 2007
Last Reviewed: 18 October 2007