Did you know that you shouldn’t rinse with water straight after brushing? It’s advisable to spit out excess toothpaste first to maximize the protective effect of fluoride. Philips has united with FDI World Dental Federation for a second year to celebrate WOHD 2017 and raise awareness of the importance of good oral health throughout life.

This year’s campaign ‘Live Mouth Smart’ empowers people to take control of their oral health – throughout life – so they can enjoy a healthy, functional mouth from childhood into old age. It conveys the message that by making smart decisions such as adopting good oral hygiene habits, avoiding risk factors and having a regular dental check-up, they can help prevent oral disease. There is a brochure available (Download here) with tips for you on how to Live Mouth Smart.

Here’s are 8 ways you can protect your oral health by practicing smart oral hygiene:

1. Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day using either a manual or electric toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste
2. Don't rinse with water straight after brushing, spit out any excess toothpaste instead
3. Eat a healthy diet, with limited snacking of foods and drinks high in sugar
4. Quit tobacco use
5. Limit your alcohol consumption
6. Wear a mouthguard when engaging in contact sports
7. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash or chew sugar-free gum after meals and snacks when brushing isn't possible
8. Visit your dentist or primary healthcare provider regularly for check-ups and cleanings

There’s a list of smart oral care for children in the brochure too.

In conjunction with WOHD, Philips introduced their Sonicare HealthyWhite+. It’s a sonic electric toothbrush that not only removes up to 100% more stains than a manual toothbrush, it also removes up to 7x more plaque than a manual toothbrush, and improves gum health in only two weeks!

For more information on the Philips Sonicare range, visit Philips Malaysia Oral Health Care Platform website.