Oral Health
There have been great improvements in oral health over the last 30 years but some people still suffer unnecessarily from pain and discomfort because of oral diseases which are largely preventable.
We are committed to providing excellent oral health care through preventive dentistry, advice, education and individual support for our patients.
Some tips for a healthy mouth…
Good Oral hygiene:
Clean your teeth and gums to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease
Clean all the spaces around teeth – we can advise about brushing technique, flossing and using interdental brushes which remove plaque between teeth
Use a fluoride toothpaste … and change your toothbrush every three months
Have regular dental appointments and follow the advice of your dentist and hygienist to maintain a healthy mouth
Diet & lifestyle:
Check food labels for sugar, fat and salt content before you buy
Eat a healthy balanced diet which contains plenty of fruit and vegetables and is low in fat, salt and sugar to promote good oral health and a healthy lifestyle
See the Sensodyne website Pronamel for detailed information about acid in foods
Seriously consider stopping smoking - see Smoking cessation
Frequent and high consumption of sugar is the major cause of dental decay. Soft drinks, confectionery and biscuits are the main sources of sugars in the diet.
Acidic foods can also cause tooth erosion. Many people are surprised to hear that high-acid foods include fruit squash/cordials and juices, cola drinks and ketchup.
Smoking increases the risk and severity of oral disease and is the greatest risk factor for oral cancer. Smoking 20 or more cigarettes a day increases the risk to six times that of non-smokers. Tobacco use also reduces the success rates of treatments such as dental implants.
Excessive alcohol consumption, particularly spirits, is a further risk factor for oral cancer, especially when combined with smoking and a poor diet. A 1998 study indicated that heavy drinkers and smokers are 30 times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers and non-drinkers.