Daily Oral Hygiene Habits
Good daily habits do more for your smile than any single product — here's what actually matters.
Brushing Technique and Duration
Two minutes, twice a day, is the general guideline — but technique matters as much as duration. Gentle, angled strokes along the gumline cover more surface area effectively than scrubbing back and forth.
Manual vs Electric, and Bristle Softness
Both manual and electric toothbrushes can clean effectively when used correctly; an electric brush can make consistent technique easier for some people. Soft bristles are generally recommended over medium or hard, since firmer bristles can be harsh on gums and enamel over time without necessarily cleaning any better.
Flossing and Interdental Cleaning
Flossing, interdental brushes and air flossers all target the spaces between teeth that a toothbrush can't reach. You don't necessarily need all three — the right one (or combination) depends on your teeth spacing and what you'll actually use consistently.
Mouthwash and Maintaining Whitening Results
A low-dose hydrogen peroxide mouthwash — such as Peroxyl (1.5% hydrogen peroxide), which we stock — can be a simple addition to a daily routine alongside brushing and flossing. Consistent oral hygiene like this is one of the habits that helps whitening results last longer.
Shop Peroxyl mouthwash. (link to online store — product URL to confirm)
Is It Normal for Gums to Bleed?
Occasional bleeding when starting a new brushing or flossing routine is common and often settles within a week or two. Ongoing bleeding is a different matter and worth getting checked, since it can be a sign of gingivitis. According to the National Study of Adult Oral Health 2017–18 — the most recent nationally representative Australian data available — around 30% of Australians aged 15 and over had moderate or severe periodontitis, rising to 59% for those aged 65 and over.
Read next: What Causes Teeth Staining?
Book a clean or whitening consultation.
Source: National Study of Adult Oral Health 2017–18, as reported in the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare's National Oral Health Plan 2015–2024 performance monitoring report (aihw.gov.au).