Curaprox, the oral-care brand, shares six simple facts to help you rethink your everyday routine this National Oral Health Month.

September is National Oral Health Month in South Africa, making it a good time to take a closer look at the habits that make up your everyday oral-care routine.

To mark the month, Curaprox, the oral-care brand, is sharing six ‘Did You Know?’ facts that could help you rethink some common oral-care habits, from how hard you brush to how often you replace your toothbrush.

1. Harder brushing does not mean cleaner teeth

You do not need to scrub your teeth like you are cleaning a stubborn stain. According to Curaprox, brushing too hard can be harsh on your teeth and gums.

Gentle brushing with the right technique can help remove plaque without unnecessary pressure.

2. Your toothbrush needs a refresh

That toothbrush sitting in your bathroom cabinet has a shelf life too.

Curaprox says mechanical wear can cause bristles to bend over time, making them less effective at removing plaque. The brand recommends replacing your toothbrush approximately every three months, or after a cold or infectious illness.

3. Your toothbrush cannot reach everything

Here is one that might surprise you. Curaprox says your toothbrush reaches only around 70% of your teeth, meaning those spaces between your teeth need some attention too.

Interdental brushes can help clean these harder-to-reach areas by removing plaque between the teeth.

4. Whitening is not always better

A brighter smile can be tempting, but some whitening toothpastes can be abrasive when used over time.

Curaprox recommends a gentler approach with its Be You toothpaste, which uses glucose oxidase to create a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide in saliva as part of its whitening action.

5. Oral bacteria can be shared

Cavity-causing bacteria can be passed between people. For parents and caregivers, Curaprox says simple habits can help reduce the transfer of these bacteria.

This includes avoiding putting a child’s spoon, pacifier or feeding bottle in your own mouth before giving it to them.

6. Your mouth can tell you more than you think

According to Curaprox, your mouth can sometimes provide clues about your general wellbeing. Changes involving your teeth, gums or tongue may indicate that something needs attention.

Looking after your oral health is therefore about more than maintaining a healthy smile. It is also an important part of looking after your overall wellbeing.

Scene Feed thought

National Oral Health Month might only come around once a year, but your oral-care routine happens every day.

Curaprox’s six reminders are a good reason to take another look at how you brush, when you replace your toothbrush and whether you are giving those hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth enough attention.

Small changes can make a difference, and when it comes to your teeth and gums, gentle care goes a long way.