Dental Care: Looking after your teeth and gums

We all know that regular dentist appointments are a key component of healthy teeth and gums. However, with the NHS still catching up with its backlog of appointments post-pandemic, not to mention the cost-of-living crisis making private dentistry unaffordable for many, there’s never been a better time to prioritise preventative dental care. So what are the different measures you can take to protect your teeth?

Brush daily

Brushing your teeth daily is simultaneously the easiest and most important element of preventative dentistry. The NHS recommends brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for about two minutes to stop plaque build-up. Most of us will have got into the habit of brushing our teeth morning and evening since childhood. But did you know that the best time to brush in the morning is before you eat breakfast? This is because plaque-causing bacteria multiply in our mouths while we sleep. What about the toothbrushes themselves? Contrary to popular belief, manual toothbrushes are just as effective as their electric counterparts – when used properly. However, many people find electric toothbrushes easier to use, which is why they’re often recommended by dentists. Remember to replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head) three to four times per year to keep the bristles rough.

Floss regularly

In addition to brushing daily, dentists also recommend flossing regularly to clean areas of your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing is also believed to reduce the risks of gum disease, by removing plaque that forms along the gum line. If you have gaps between your teeth, swap floss or dental tape for interdental brushes; they come in sizes to suit everyone.

Use mouthwash

Commonly used to keep our breath minty fresh, mouthwash can also reduce the amount of acid in the mouth, clean hard-to-brush areas in and around the gums and even remineralise teeth. With so many brands on the market, from products made for children to mouthwashes designed for those with sensitive teeth, speak to your dentist to find the perfect mouthwash for you.

Reduce your sugar intake

Sugar is your teeth’s arch nemesis. This is because it causes tooth decay by reacting with the bacteria found in plaque. Every time you consume sugary food or drinks, the enamel in your teeth is softened and your teeth become exposed to decay-causing acids. Thankfully, this damage is somewhat reversed by minerals from the enamel of your teeth and your saliva. Saliva generates minerals like calcium and phosphates, both of which are beneficial for strengthening teeth. It’s an important process, but it can only do so much. To keep your teeth healthy, you’ll still need to limit your sugar intake. Sugary drinks are the main culprit, but what about sugar-free drinks? Surprisingly, even your favourite sugar-free fizzy drinks can be bad for your teeth due to their acidity levels. To be on the safe side, stick to water, unsweetened tea, milk, plain sparkling water and diluted juice – with sugary drinks as an occasional treat.