Good dental health

Good dental health

Good dental health is founded on a clean, bacteria- and plaque-free mouth. The best way to avoid troublesome teeth is to stay on top of your dental care routine, be well informed and maintain a good relationship with your dentist through regular consultations.  

Your oral hygiene routine

First and foremost for good dental health you need a good oral hygiene routine.

Twice a day, brush your teeth thoroughly with a brush. Make sure to brush all the surfaces of all your teeth, paying special attention to your back teeth as these are the ones often missed.

In addition to brushing, flossing or using an interdental brush between every tooth is important for removing any trapped food and keeping your gumline clean.

Finally, make a note in your diary of your next local Portway Dental Care dental consultation or hygienist appointment. A regular deep, professional clean is essential to a first-class dental care routine.

Let’s talk about fluoride

What is fluoride? Naturally present in water (although in some areas it is added to your tap water, because of its dental benefits), fluoride is a mineral that is absorbed into the tooth enamel, strengthening it and helping to protect against decay. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body, however, it can be softened and dissolved by the acid that bacteria in the mouth can produce or acid in fizzy drinks and fruit juice. Once lost it is impossible for it to regenerate. However, fluoride can help with re-mineralisation in the early stages of enamel damage, meaning that it works to help keep your enamel stronger for longer.

Lifestyle and diet

There is truth in the saying you are what you eat and food has a huge impact on your overall dental health. A good balanced diet helps to achieve and maintain a healthy mouth with strong gums and teeth.

Dark leafy greens, such a kale and spinach, green tea, celery and apples are all gum-loving foods, helping to keep them healthy from the inside out. Dairy foods, such as cheese, milk and natural yoghurt all harbour a helpful bacterium called casein which is good for reducing acid, keeping the pH balance in your mouth neutral. Shiitake mushrooms are another lesser known, but equally delicious way of reducing the levels of harmful bacteria in your mouth. They contain an antibacterial compound called lentinan, which wards off harmful bacteria that can build up along the gumline.  

Your Portway Dental Care dentist and hygienist will be able to offer you practical advice on how to retain good dental health. Get in touch to book your next appointment today on 01235 762187.

Consultations

At Portway Dental Care we know that every smile is unique. Regular consultations are advised to complement a good daily oral health routine and to provide a preventative approach to dental issues.

Hygienist services 

Your Portway Dental Care hygienist’s key aim is to prevent and treat gum disease, which is now the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. 

Get in touch with the Wantage team on 01235 762187 today!