Our teeth have to last us a lifetime so we need to treat them well. Here are some top tips for looking after your teeth from the experts;
Top tips from dentists
- Brush twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste in the morning and again before bed.
- In addition to brushing your teeth make sure you also gently brush where your teeth meet your gum. Be sure to brush your tongue too. Ideally we should be brushing our teeth for two minutes each time.
- Floss daily to remove small pieces of food, and to stimulate the gums.
- Keep an eye on your diet and limit the amount of sugary and acidic food you eat. Acid can erode enamel and lead to cavities.
- Visit your dentist regularly for a check up and a clean.Twice a year is recommended.
Electric or manual brush?
The NHS are loath to recommend electric toothbrushes over manual ones, although most independent studies and many dentists favour electric brushes. They say that they are more effective at removing plaque. All agree that if using a manual brush make sure you have a medium-bristled brush with a small head which makes it easier to reach the back of the mouth.
Mobile dentist in Sussex
For non-urgent dental services in the comfort of your own home we’re delighted to have Jo Crossman, mobile dental therapist, under the Home & Company umbrella. Jo is an experienced Dental Hygienist and Dental Therapist. She could see there was a clear need to offer a mobile service to those who find it tricky to get to a practice appointment.
Jo is able to clean your teeth using manual or powered instruments as needed; place temporary fillings; smooth chipped or rough teeth; carry out oral health screening to check for other conditions eg oral cancer and refer to appropriate health specialists; apply topical fluoride; replace crowns with temporary cement. Jo is registered with the General Dental Council and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and is fully insured. The cost of a home dental hygienist appointment is £90 + VAT. If you would like to book an appointment please ring us on 01273 434190.
Urgent dentist care appointments in Sussex
We know that accessing dental appointments has become ever more difficult. For urgent dental care there is currently an NHS scheme in place for Sussex residents who are unable to get an urgent dental appointment or for patients without access to a regular dentist. If you need to use this service (which will remain in place until at least 31 March 2025) please contact the Sussex Dental Helpline on 0300 123 1663.
If the Home & Company team can help with anything please do get in touch, and in the meantime happy brushing!