Problem Prevention Advice

As with many health issues, how you look after yourself is of great importance. Modern Dentistry is heavily biased towards preventing tooth and gum problems and, in doing so, minimising the actual amount of treatment needed. You’re never too young or too old to start dental prevention and here’s how:

Dental routine:

A daily dental hygiene routine is the most essential part of preventing dental problems. You should brush every morning and every evening, concentrating on all those hard to reach places. Using an electric toothbrush, flossing and mouth wash will also improve your dental hygiene.

Regular check ups:

It may seem like a contradiction, come to the dentist… to avoid coming to the dentist? But regular check ups are not invasive procedures. They are designed to catch problems early on, so that you can avoid more invasive treatment. Better for your health, better for your wallet.

Hygiene appointments:

During your regular check ups, we may advise you to see a hygienist later on as well. Why? Because after a while, some build up of plaque simply can’t be removed by regular brushing. People usually only need these appointments every three, four or six months and your mouth will feel wonderfully clean afterwards.

Diet:

You probably already know that sugar doesn’t do your teeth any favours, but that’s not the only culprit. Carbohydrates in general (pasta, rice, porridge, cereal, etc…) and fruits can form acids that are also harmful. Rather than cutting out these foods (which wouldn’t be wise), try combining them with ‘neutral’ foods such as proteins (meat, eggs, etc …). To avoid discolouration of the teeth, the consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, chocolate and curry should also be kept to a minimum.

Follow our advice:

When it comes to teeth, we know what keeps them healthy and what doesn’t. Don’t be afraid to ask us advice or to check you are on the right track when you come to see us. We’re here to help!

Starting young:

We’d love to lay the foundations of good dental health in your children. From fluoride and dietary advice to prevent decay, to fissure sealants and protective gum shields for sports - they’re all part of our preventive philosophy.