Good dental health

Good dental health is a clean, bacteria and plaque-free mouth. You want to keep emergency visits to the dentist at a minimum throughout your life. 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 local Ballymena dentist through regular check ups.  

Your oral hygiene routine

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

1. Twice a day, brush your teeth thoroughly with a brush. Make sure to brush the surface of all your teeth, paying special attention to your back teeth as these are the ones often missed, and where hidden bacteria can become plaque.
2. In addition to brushing, flossing between every tooth is important for removing any trapped food and keeping your gumline clean
3. Finally, make a note in your diary of your next local Smiles Dental Care dental check up and hygienist appointment. A deep, professional clean once or twice a year 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 actively helps our bodies absorb calcium, and is essential for protecting your enamel and keeping teeth strong. Enamel is the most highly mineralised part of our body and, while hard, it is notoriously sensitive to changes in pH. Once eroded, it is impossible for it to regenerate. However, fluoride can help with re-mineralisation, meaning that it works to help keep your enamel stronger for longer.

It’s worth remembering that if you use mouthwash straight after brushing, this can rinse away some of the fluoride. Try to give it a few minutes between brushing and rinsing. Your Ballymena dentist will be able to advise on fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes.

Lifestyle and diet

There’s truth in the saying you are what you eat, and food has a huge impact on your overall dental health. A good balanced diet means a healthy mouth, strong gums and bright teeth.

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

Your Smiles 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 028 2565 5060.