The expert guide to caring for your mouth

A lady brushing her teeth in the mirror looking at her reflection

A good oral care routine does more than clean your teeth- it helps protect your gums, strengthen enamel, and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth. For people with dry mouth, every step is even more important. Following an effective, gentle routine can prevent discomfort, bad breath, and tooth decay while supporting overall oral health.

Step 1 – Brush effectively, not aggressively

Brushing twice a day is essential, but how you brush can make all the difference. Use a soft-bristled brush (preferably an electric toothbrush) and apply gentle circular motions on each tooth and the gum line to remove plaque, without irritating gums. Avoid harsh scrubbing while you brush which can lead to gum recession and enamel wear.

Choose an SLS-free toothpaste, like Oralieve Ultra Mild Toothpaste, to clean effectively without foaming agents that can cause irritation. Its mild flavour and fluoride content make it ideal for daily use in dry or sensitive mouths.

Step 2 – Don’t skip the tongue

The tongue harbours a large number of bacteria that contribute to bad breath and poor oral health. Gently cleaning it daily with a tongue cleaner or soft brush helps reduce the bacterial build-up. For those with dry mouth, this step is particularly important, as reduced saliva allows bacteria to thrive on the tongue’s surface.

Step 3 – Rinse wisely  

Mouthwash can also be a valuable part of your routine, but not all are suitable for dry mouth. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can strip away moisture and sting sensitive tissue. Instead, use an alcohol-free formula like Oralieve Mouthrinse for dry & sensitive mouths, which is free from alcohol and SLS, which soothes, protects, and supports a healthy oral microbiome without drying the mouth further. It is also advised to rinse at a different time to brushing and 30 minutes after eating.

Keep moisture levels steady throughout the day

Having a good oral health routine is just the foundation – staying hydrated and maintaining moisture are key to long-term comfort. Frequent sips of water, sugar-free gums and lozenges can help, but for more lasting relief, try the Oralieve Moisturising Dry Mouth Gel or Spray. These products mimic saliva’s natural moisture, making it easier to talk, eat and swallow comfortably throughout the day.

Night-time care matters too 

During sleep, saliva flow naturally decreases, so dry mouth symptoms can worsen overnight. Before bed, brush for 2 minutes and then apply a thin layer of Oralieve Gel to keep the mouth hydrated while you sleep. 

Sleeping with the mouth open can worsen dryness, so try breathing through your nose and keeping your room humidified if possible.

A simple routine that makes a big difference

A consistent oral care routine doesn’t have to be complicated – it just needs to be gentle, thorough, and tailored to your needs. By combining proper techniques and products like Oralieve, you can protect your oral health, prevent discomfort, and keep your mouth feeling fresh and confident every day.

Back to Blogs