General dental health

It is important to take good care of the teeth you get and keep them free of disease. This is a brochure that gives general advice for taking care of your teeth.

Hygiene

It is important to take good care of your teeth. You will have your teeth and wear them for life. When brushing your teeth, it is advisable to be systematic so that all surfaces of the teeth are cleaned, including between the teeth and on the back of the teeth. To clean between the teeth, dental floss or interdental brushes are used. Consult with your dental hygienist/dentist what is best for you.

The Norwegian Directorate of Health recommends brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste (1000-1500ppm NaF) every morning and evening after meals. In order for fluoride to work on teeth, rinsing the mouth with water after brushing should be avoided. It is believed that one then has an increased effect of the fluoride in the toothpaste, as the fluoride is allowed to stay longer on the teeth.

Some patients need additional fluoride supplements, please check with your dental hygienist/dentist if this applies to you.

General recommendations on diet are

• Regular meals, because the body needs the opportunity to remove sugar and bacteria from the mouth. It is important to give your teeth a break from food and drinks, with the exception of water.
• Water is a thirst drink, even if you get thirsty at night.
• Frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks can contribute to an increased risk of tooth decay.

Rights under the law on dental care

All children from 0-18 years old have free dental treatment at the public dental clinics, this applies to all treatment except braces at the orthodontist.

If you have rights in home care or live in an institution (more than 3 months), you are also entitled to free dental treatment at the public dental clinics.

From the year you turn 19, you are entitled to dental treatment at a reduced price for a period of time, check with your nearest dental clinic for how long this applies. Some diseases may also grant reduced dental treatment rights, please check with your dental hygienist/dentist if this may apply to you.