New year, healthy smile

Most of our New Year’s resolutions centre around leading a more healthy lifestyle, so why not consider making your dentist very happy by pledging to improve your oral health in 2018.

To help you on your way, here are some simple steps that everyone should take to achieve dental greatness.

1. Brush, brush, brush

Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a toothpaste containing fluoride. The brushing action alone will help to remove plaque (which leads to tooth decay if it’s not removed), while fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel.

2. Reach every surface

Clean in between your teeth using floss or interdental brushes once a day. Ideally you’ll want to do this at night time to rid your teeth of any trapped food before you go to sleep.

3. Change your toothbrush

Replace your toothbrush every few months. Once the bristles start to wear and spread they won’t be able to clean your teeth effectively.

4. Save sweet things for mealtimes

Restrict sugary snacks to mealtimes, so you’re subjecting your teeth to fewer ‘acid attacks’ throughout the day. Better yet, cut back altogether if you can.

5. Drink through a straw

Enjoy sugary or fizzy drinks through a straw. This helps the liquid to bypass your teeth, reducing the risk of damage to your pearlies.

6. Chew gum

Chew sugar-free gum after eating to help stimulate saliva production to wash away harmful acids and sugars. The xylitol in sugar-free gum also helps to neutralise acidity.

7. Don’t brush too soon

After eating, don’t brush your teeth straight away. Your tooth enamel will be temporarily softened by acids in your diet, so you could risk scrubbing it away over time.

8. See your dentist

Visit your dentist for regular check-ups. They’ll be able to spot the early signs of tooth decay or gum disease and take action before they become a bigger – and more costly – problem.

9. Sport a mouthguard

If you play any kind of sport that involves physical contact, wear a mouth guard – it could save your smile.

10. Ditch the cigarettes

If you’re a smoker – quit! Smoking is terrible for your teeth, as well as your overall health. For advice on quitting, visit www.nhs.uk/livewell/smoking/.

For more help and advice on getting your teeth in tip-top condition, browse our blog or contact our friendly team.