Having good oral health means feeling good about how the smile looks, feeling confident that the breath smells fresh and odour free and being free from discomfort. Here at Nailsea Dental Practice, we offer advice, preventive care and a choice of treatments to help our patients to enjoy all the benefits of having healthy teeth and gums. This guide from the dentist in Nailsea explores how patients can be proactive in getting and maintaining a great smile.

Brushing and flossing

Brushing and flossing every day is important for keeping the teeth and gums in good condition and free from inflammation and disease.

The dentist in Nailsea recommends brushing twice daily. The toothbrush should have bristles of medium hardness. If it is too soft, then it may not be effective at removing food debris and plaque. Brushes that are too hard may have an abrasive impact on the teeth and cause the removal of enamel. Fluoride toothpaste helps to strengthen and protect enamel, an important layer on the teeth that helps to prevent deterioration such as cavities and even cracks and chips.

Flossing should be done once a day, ideally before bed. Using floss or interdental brushes helps to remove any debris that has remained after brushing. If this debris is allowed to sit between the teeth overnight, then it can start to compromise oral health. Any patient who is unsure about how best to clean between their teeth should consult with the dentist in Nailsea to learn an effective technique.

Should mouthwash be used?

Many people rinse with mouthwash after brushing, believing that they are further cleaning their teeth by doing so. However, it is much better for the teeth and gums if a residue of toothpaste is left on the teeth after brushing. This helps to protect the teeth from damage and deterioration. If mouthwash is used, then it washes away the remaining toothpaste and reduces some of the benefits of brushing.

It is fine to use mouthwash as a means of dislodging food particles and freshening the breath a couple of times a day, but this should be done between brushing sessions.

Get checked out

Making an appointment with us for a check-up every few months is important for safeguarding oral health. We conduct a physical examination of the teeth and gums, checking for the slightest hint of any issues so that we can nip them in the bud before they become problematic. This means that the patient can significantly reduce their chances of suffering from dental discomfort, and of having to spend a lot of time and money on dental treatments.

Drink water

People who drink water most of the time are more likely to have healthy teeth and gums. This is especially the case if it is tap water, most of which contains fluoride. Some people often choose other drinks to sate their thirst, such as fruit juices, smoothies and fizzy drinks. If these are consumed more than water, then there is a high likelihood of enamel erosion, staining and the development of cavities.