This blog has been produced in partnership with LISTERINE®.

Ever wonder why dental care is in the news all over Canada? Well, buckle up because we’re about to dive deep into the world of teeth, fresh breath, and how to take care of your oral health.

Jump to:

Why Oral Health Matters
Understanding What Harms Your Mouth
What Can You Do to Stop This?
Why Should I Use Mouthwash?
Visit A Dentist Regularly
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Oral Health Matters

Let’s face it – your mouth is pretty important. It’s not just for flashing winning smiles or enjoying your favourite food. Good oral health is the gateway to your overall well-being. Think about it: your mouth is the entrance to your digestive and respiratory systems. So, taking care of your mouth protects your whole body!

But, did you also know that poor oral health has been linked to serious health conditions? We’re talking about heart disease, diabetes, and even pregnancy complications. The little bacteria in your mouth can cause big problems if left unchecked.

And a healthy mouth can boost your confidence, improve your nutrition, and even help you land that dream job. After all, a bright smile can make a lasting first impression!

People smiling while holding coffee cups. — Credit: Ginabell Andujar

Understanding What Harms Your Mouth

Now, let’s talk about what might be lurking in your mouth.

Cavities

These little holes in your teeth are like piercings. They form when bacteria in your mouth produce acid that destroys your tooth enamel. Left untreated, they can lead to pain, infection, and you may even lose your teeth.

Gingivitis

You see this when your gums become red and swollen. Most commonly, you’ll notice blood in the sink after brushing and flossing. This is an early stage of gum disease, caused by plaque buildup along the gum line. The good news? It’s reversible if caught early!

Periodontitis

This advanced form of gum disease can damage the soft tissue and bones that support your teeth.

Bad Breath

Because nobody wants to be that person at the office. Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, certain foods, or underlying health conditions. It’s not just about popping a mint! Addressing the cause is the solution.

Tooth Sensitivity

Ever winced when sipping hot tea or biting into something cold? That’s tooth sensitivity. It can be caused by worn enamel, exposed roots, or teeth grinding.

What Can You Do to Stop This?

Practicing prevention is the best way to avoid the need for more serious treatment. In Canada, it’s common to take these steps to avoid the worst. And here’s the scoop on keeping your mouth healthy:

Brush regularly

Twice a day as the dentists say! Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. And don’t rush. Aim for at least two minutes each time.

Floss

Get in those tight spaces where your brush can’t reach. It’s not just about removing food particles. It’s about breaking the plaque buildup between your teeth.

Rinse with Mouthwash

Brushing and flossing only cleans 25% of your mouth. Shocking, right? Rinsing twice a day with an antiseptic mouthwash can reach places your brush and floss might miss plus offer additional oral health benefits.

A person brushing their teeth. — Credit: National Cancer Institute

Why Should I Use Mouthwash?

You wouldn’t wash only a quarter of your face, so why is it any different when it comes to oral care? If you want an A+ cleaning job, give LISTERINE® Total Care Zero a try. It is an alcohol-free mouthwash that cleans virtually 100% of your mouth.

When added to your routine, LISTERINE® Total Care Zero reduces and prevents gingivitis better than brushing and flossing alone. This isn’t a secret! LISTERINE® is approved by the Canadian Dental Association to do exactly as it says.

Made with 3 essential oils (thymol, eucalyptol and menthol) LISTERINE® Total Care Zero combines 8 benefits for a whole mouth clean:

Kills bad breath germs
Prevents and reduces plaque
Prevents cavities
Protects from bad breath bacteria for up to 12 hours
Prevents and reduces gingivitis
Strengthens tooth enamel
Fights tartar
Helps keep teeth white

Listerine Total Care Alcohol Free mouth wash — Credit: Kenvue

Visit A Dentist Regularly

Regular visits to the dentist are one of the best ways to keep your mouth healthy while catching anything concerning, like tooth decay and gum disease. A dentist and dental hygienist will be able to see what you cannot because their education and experience make them experts in oral care. A visit to your dentist is not only ideal when you feel a toothache, but also, for ongoing professional teeth cleaning.

Please consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on how often you should be visiting to care for your oral health.

Person visiting their dentist for a check up. — Credit: Filip Rankovic Grobgaard

+ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the right way to brush your teeth? Use gentle circular motions, and brush all surfaces of your teeth for at least 2 minutes.

What is the rule for brushing your teeth? The 2-2-2 rule: Brush twice a day, for 2 minutes, and visit your dentist twice a year.

Do I floss before or after brushing? Recent studies suggest flossing before brushing might be more beneficial, but consistency is more important than the order you complete your steps.

Should I brush my teeth before using whitening strips? Yes, you can brush your teeth and floss before using whitening strips to remove any plaque while also helping the strips adhere to your teeth. However, you should wait approximately 30 minutes after brushing to use the whitening strips on your teeth. You can also brush your teeth after using whitening strips but do so gently to avoid irritation.

Is it good to use mouthwash every day? Yes, using an antiseptic mouthwash twice daily can reach areas missed by brushing and flossing.

Do dentists recommend mouthwash? Many dentists recommend mouthwash, especially for those at high risk of dental problems.

Which mouthwash should I choose? The best mouthwash depends on your specific needs, but LISTERINE® Total Care offers benefits for overall oral health. LISTERINE® has also earned the trust of Canadians over the years as the #1 dentist-recommended mouthwash brand! (Source: IQVIA ProVoice Survey, May 2024)

When should you use mouthwash? For general use, many find using mouthwash before bed or during a morning routine works well. But follow the instructions on the label for the best results.

Your Mouth, Your Health, Your Confidence

Your mouth works hard for you every day – talking, eating, expressing emotions. It’s time to return the favour by showing the care it deserves.

Remember, a healthy mouth is the foundation for a healthy body and a confident you. So, you can snap a photo with the biggest smile on your next Canoo adventure at Banff National Park in Alberta, in front of Parliament Hill in Ottawa, or while exploring Toronto’s hidden gems!

Person smiling at food. — Credit: Outcast India

Are you ready to level up your oral health game? Start with the basics – brush, floss, rinse with mouthwash twice daily. And don’t forget to make those regular dental appointments.

Here’s to bright smiles, fresh breath, and the confidence to take on the world, one tooth at a time.