Prevention and oral hygiene

How do we prevent cavities?

Decay develops when bacteria in dental plaque turn dietary sugars into acids that demineralise the enamel. Prevention is essentially about reducing that acid attack and strengthening the tooth's resistance.

The factors most within your control are how often you consume sugar (more important than how much) and the quality of your brushing with a fluoride toothpaste.

• brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
• clean between the teeth daily (floss or interdental brushes)
• limit sweet snacks and fizzy drinks between meals
• make water your main drink between meals
• attend regular check-ups so early lesions are found in time

How should you brush?

Technique matters more than force. Hold the brush at roughly 45 degrees to the gum margin and use short, gentle strokes, working systematically across all surfaces: outer, inner and biting.

Hard brushing does not clean better, but it can contribute to gum recession and wear of the tooth surfaces.

Electric or manual toothbrush?

Both can clean effectively when used correctly. Research suggests electric brushes, particularly oscillating-rotating ones, may remove more plaque, especially for people whose technique could be improved.

A soft-bristled brush is generally recommended. Replace the head roughly every three months, or sooner if the bristles splay.

Floss and interdental brushes

Brushing does not reach between the teeth, which is where decay and gum inflammation frequently start. Daily interdental cleaning completes the routine.

Floss suits tight contacts, while interdental brushes are often more effective where the spaces are wider. The right size can be established at the practice.

Fluoride and dental health

Fluoride helps remineralise enamel and increases its resistance to acid attack. Fluoride toothpaste is one of the best-documented preventive measures against decay.

For children, the amount of toothpaste is adapted to age and brushing should be supervised by an adult. Suitable concentrations can be discussed at your appointment.

Why do gums bleed?

The most common cause is inflammation from plaque accumulating at the gum margin. Other contributors include incorrect brushing, smoking, certain medical conditions and some medicines.

Persistent bleeding should not be ignored, and the answer is not to stop brushing the area.

Tooth sensitivity

That short, sharp response to cold, sweet or acidic foods often occurs when dentine is exposed through gum recession or enamel wear.

Toothpastes for sensitive teeth can help, but persistent sensitivity deserves assessment: it may signal decay, a crack or a poorly fitting filling.

Bad breath (halitosis)

In most cases the cause is local: bacterial deposits on the tongue, gum inflammation, decay or food trapped between teeth.

Cleaning the tongue, interdental hygiene and staying hydrated all help. If the problem persists despite good hygiene, a clinical assessment is worthwhile.

Diet and oral health

It is not only sugar that counts, but how often you are exposed to it. Each sweet snack triggers a fresh acid attack, and saliva needs time to neutralise the environment.

Fizzy drinks, including 'diet' versions, can contribute to enamel erosion. After acidic food or drink, it is better to wait around 30 minutes before brushing.

Children's oral hygiene

Brushing starts with the first tooth. Until around the age of seven or eight, children need help or supervision, because the dexterity needed for effective brushing develops gradually.

Sweetened drinks in a bottle before sleep and frequent snacking significantly increase the risk of early childhood decay.

How often should you see a dentist?

A six-month check-up is a widely used benchmark, but the ideal interval is individual: it depends on decay risk, gum condition, habits and dental history.

Regular check-ups allow problems to be found at a stage where treatment is simple and takes less of your time.

Sports protection and grinding

Tooth grinding (bruxism) can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity and muscle pain. The signs are often noticed first at the practice.

Depending on the situation, a protective splint may be recommended. Mention it at your appointment if you wake with a tense jaw or morning headaches.