Make the most out of your dental benefits

When it comes to taking care of your teeth, TFG Medical Aid Scheme has you covered. Please refer to your Benefit Guide for more information about your dental benefits and more. But prevention is better than cure, so follow these tips for good oral health and hygiene:

  1. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day. The best time to brush teeth is after meals. Choose a toothbrush with a small head (better access to back teeth) and soft bristles (that are kinder on your gums). Brushing your teeth should take between two and three minutes each time. Keep your brush clean, never share it with anybody else and change it every three to four months.

  2. Fluoridated toothpaste helps to harden tooth enamel and reduces your risk of decay. Make sure your kids have toothpaste suitable for their age group and don’t let them swallow it. It is important that parents supervise brushing up until the child is seven and has developed safe and adequate oral hygiene habits.

  3. Floss your teeth and use a mouthwash. Clean between the teeth with interdental brushes or floss at least once a day. A mouthwash is not always necessary, but can still help to kill bacteria.

  4. Limit acidic drinks like soft drinks, cordials and fruit juices. Food acids soften tooth material and dissolve the minerals in tooth enamel, causing holes (cavities).

  5. Limit sugary foods. Bacteria in dental plaque changes sugars into acids.

  6. Avoid tobacco. Not only will it save you from discolouring your teeth, possible oral cancer or periodontal complications, it will also help avoid using sweets to mask smoky breath, effectively doubling the amount of damage caused.

  7. Protect your teeth from injury. Wear a mouth guard when playing sports or if you grind your teeth at night. Don’t use your teeth for anything other than chewing food.

  8. See your dentist regularly. Visit your dentist if you have any dental problem such as toothache, jaw pain or bleeding gums. Even without dental problems, adults and children should go twice a year for a check-up.