When was the last time you questioned your oral hygiene? The latest guidelines released by the University of Adelaide reveal that there is more to dental hygiene than a regular brush and floss.
The new guidelines have been released as part of an initiative to promote the oral health of Australians, and contain tips we should all be aware of.
1. Self-use fluoride products
From the time that teeth first appear (about 6 months) to the age of 17 months, children’s teeth should be cleaned by an adult, but not with toothpaste.
For children from 18 months to 5 years, teeth should be cleaned twice a day with toothpaste containing 0.4 – 0.55mg/g of fluoride. Only a small pea-sized amount should be applied to a soft toothbrush and children should spit out, not swallow, and not rinse.
For people aged 6 years or older, teeth should be cleaned twice a day with a toothpaste containing 1mg/g of fluoride. Again it is important to spit out, and not swallow the toothpaste.
For teenagers and adults who are at a higher risk of developing decay, dental professional advice should be sought.
Fluoride supplements in the form of drops or tablets to be chewed and swallowed should not be used.
A fluoride mouthrinse may be used by people over 6 years who have an elevated risk of developing decay. The rinse should be spat out, not swallowed
2. Professionally applied fluoride products
Fluoride varnish may be applied for people who have an elevated risk of decay, including children under the age of 10.
High concentration fluoride gels and foams (containing >1.5mg/g fluoride) may be used for people over 10 who are at higher risk of developing decay.
3. Community water fluoridation
Water fluoridation should be continued and extended to as many people as possible living in non-fluoridated areas.
The level of fluoride in the water supply should be within the range 0.6 – 1.1 mg/L.
Manufacturers of bottled water should be encouraged to market bottled water containing 1.0 mg/L fluoride, and water filters designed not to remove fluoride.
Sodium fluoride should be marketed as a water supplement for addition to non-fluoridated water sources so people can choose to drink fluoridated water.
Infant formula is now safe for consumption by infants when reconstituted using fluoridated or non-fluoridated water.
Remember: Fluoride helps prevent dental decay. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will ensure your teeth last for a lifetime.
Source: Australian Dental Journal 2006;51:(2):195 - 1
Smile: fluoride tips to help your teeth 
