Why your oral health needs a 24-hour upgrade

Dentists encourage South Africans to look beyond their twice-daily brushing routine and embrace oral care as a full-day commitment this National Oral Health Month. With statistics from the South African Government indicating that gum disease ranks second only to the common cold in prevalence, affecting an estimated 90% of citizens, the need for continuous oral hygiene has never been more pressing.

Dentyne has partnered with Dr Dineshen Govender, founder and co-owner of the Family Dental Care and Smile Bar stores, to inform South Africans on the importance of maintaining oral health throughout the day, especially between morning and evening brushing. The ‘Oral Care on the Go’ insights, will equip each of us with the expert tips and tools needed to be #DentyneReady for any situation.

Bhavir Doolabh, Category Brand Manager for Mondelez Gum, says, “September provides the perfect opportunity to deepen the conversation we started around the importance of oral care on the go. We want to empower people, to understand that oral health isn’t just a two-minute task but a 24-hour ritual. By partnering with a credible and a forward-thinking expert like Dr Govender, we can provide tangible advice and highlight how Dentyne complements a dedicated oral care routine, ensuring confidence and health from morning to night.”

The mouth is a 24-hour ecosystem

Many people believe that brushing twice a day, in the morning and evening, is sufficient. However, according to Dr Govender, the mouth is a dynamic environment that requires constant attention.

He explains, “Dedicating a month to oral health is crucial because it sensitises us to habits, we should be practising daily. Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and systemic health issues, like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, are linked to oral health. The reality is, from your morning coffee to your lunch and afternoon snacks, your teeth are under constant attack. Between meals, food particles are broken down by bacteria, which then secrete acidic toxins that lead to tooth decay and bad breath. It’s a continuous process.”

This is why a 24-hour approach is essential. The hours between brushing are when the most damage can occur if left unchecked, making proactive care throughout the day non-negotiable for optimal oral health.

Debunking common myths and neglected habits

During his practice, Dr Govender has identified several common misconceptions and neglected habits, even among those who believe they have a good oral care routine.

"One of the biggest mistakes we see is people brushing too hard with a hard-bristle toothbrush, thinking harder is cleaner. It’s the complete opposite; it can damage enamel and gums," he warns. "Another is neglecting the power of saliva. Saliva is your body’s natural defence mechanism. It has a constant washing effect on the teeth, neutralising acid and helping to prevent decay. When your mouth is dry, you become more susceptible to a host of oral issues.”

This is where the simple habit of chewing sugar-free gum, like Dentyne, plays a vital, expert-recommended role.

Your on-the-go ally that bridges the gap

For the busy individual juggling meetings, errands, and a social life, brushing after every meal is unrealistic. Dr Govender states that sugar-free gum, such as Dentyne, offers a practical and effective way for South Africans to maintain oral hygiene whilst on the go.

“Chewing sugar-free gum is one of the best things you can do between brushes. Firstly, the chewing action stimulates saliva flow, which is critical. It creates a good oral environment and gives your teeth a ‘shower’, washing away debris. Secondly, the slight stickiness of the gum can help pull out food particles lodged between teeth.”

“By chewing sugar-free gum after a meal or coffee, you’re not just freshening your breath, you are actively protecting your teeth,” Dr Govender adds.

A healthy mouth is the foundation of confidence

The ultimate benefit of a diligent, 24-hour oral care routine extends beyond physical health and affects confidence.

Dr Govender adds, “In my daily life as a dentist, the number one thing we help restore is confidence. We watch people go from being hunched over and insecure about their smile to standing upright and engaging with the world. A healthy mouth gives you the freedom to laugh openly in a meeting, feel self-assured on a date, or make a great first impression. It’s about being the best version of yourself.”

Bhavir says, the #DentyneReady campaign highlights this connection, celebrating the self-assurance that comes from a healthy mouth. “This aligns perfectly with Dentyne’s ethos. Being #DentyneReady means being equipped with the fresh breath and healthy smile needed to face any spontaneous encounter with confidence.”

Dr Govender’s single most crucial piece of advice for managing oral health throughout the day is to “be proactive, not reactive”. He concludes, “Don’t wait for a problem. Stick to the basics of brushing correctly, flossing, and being mindful of your diet. And for those crucial moments in between, make a smart choice like chewing sugar-free gum. These simple, consistent actions are what makes a massive difference, ensuring your smile is healthy, confident, and ready for anything. And visit Smile Bar for regular whitening touch ups for the extra boost of confidence.”