Posts tagged “oral health”

How To Get Healthy Teeth And Gums For 2013 For Patients In London

February 7th, 2013

Start the New Year by looking after your mouth by following our tips for great teeth and gums:

The first step to keeping your teeth looking great is by watching the colour of what you eat and drink. Red wine, coffee or black tea, and cigarettes can all have a negative impact on the colour of your teeth. The best way to avoid staining is to brush your teeth after having anything that is likely to stain them. Using a bleaching agent recommended by your dentist can also help.

A healthier diet

You can also avoid problems with your teeth by cutting back on sugary food and drinks. Sugar can cause plaque, which leads to issues such as tooth decay, cavities and gum disease. Foods that are good for teeth include apples, celery and carrots, which help clean teeth due to being crisp and firm. Drinking water during the day also helps teeth by flushing out bacteria from the mouth and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

At Devonshire Square Dental Studio in London we advise replacing your toothbrush every three months at most to ensure that your mouth is being properly cleaned. Using an old brush will mean that bacteria is being moved from the brush to your mouth.

Brush your teeth

Most of us spend just half a minute brushing our teeth, instead of the recommended 2 minutes. Start timing yourself while brushing your teeth and divide it into 30 seconds each for the front and back of both the top and bottom sets if that helps. It is also good to get into a regular routine with flossing. If you begin and end at the same point every time you floss, you can be sure that all every tooth has been cleaned. If you find it difficult to use floss you may find it helpful to get a floss holder.

Tags: brushing teeth, London, oral health, Oral hygiene London
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Tooth Brushing Techniques For Patients in London

August 25th, 2012

Brushing your teeth is the best way to combat build up of plaque, tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease. It’s incredibly easy to do, takes only a few minutes and should already be a part of everybody’s daily routine. By brushing your teeth twice a day, morning and night, you can stave off a whole assortment of oral health nightmares, all the while making your teeth and most importantly your smile sparkle. Brushing should be done by everyone regardless of their diet, but for those who consume a lot of sugary, sweet foods it is especially important. This is because those kinds of foods contain sugars and starches which are quick to cause plaque build up and eat at the enamel, causing tooth decay.

Flossing

Flossing your teeth should be done alongside brushing as flossing daily helps to remove the plaque that builds up between the teeth. If you don’t brush or floss the plaque will grow and eventually harden into tartar. Plaque and tartar build up has been linked to heart disease and other serious conditions so it’s not something we can afford to ignore.

Brushing the teeth

When brushing your teeth it’s important to use the right tools and equipment so that the process is as effective as possible and maximises the amount of plaque removal. A soft bristled tooth brush is recommended and fluoride tooth paste is shown to prevent tooth decay considerably. There are many different types of toothpaste on the market today, with products catering to a whole range of different needs, such as those with sensitive teeth, those with stained teeth and even natural tooth pastes that are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. This means that there’s absolutely no excuse or argument against brushing. If you want a healthy smile, it’s the way to go.

Tags: Brushing techniques, Central London, London brushing techniques, oral health
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City of London dentists look at the relationship between gum disease and fertility

January 24th, 2012

Healthy gums are important not only for proper eating and digestion purposes but for so much more – especially when it comes to fertility. Some O.B.G.Y.N. doctors now think that gum disease may lessen a woman’s chances of getting pregnant. Not having good oral health causes great harm – almost as bad as being overweight when trying to get pregnant.

What problems does gum disease cause?

Not long ago it was found that women who had gum disease took over seven months to conceive whereas most women conceive in about five months. The main culprit, some think, is inflammation of the gums. When inflamed gums are not treated, it affects the entire body. Gum disease has already been causing problems with the heart, diabetes and, in some cases, miscarriages for some women. In addition, gum disease has been found to lower the sperm count in men.

Studies previously carried out have shown a link between healthy teeth, gums and fertility. In those studies it was also found that women who sought fertility treatments were more prone to having problems with their gums than those who conceived without fertility treatments. Another study found that women who had serious gum disease were more likely to have premature babies or have babies that had a low birth weight.

How can this be avoided?

To avoid fertility problems with a birth and to keep yourself healthy before, during and after pregnancy, there are things you can do such as brushing and flossing every day. This will keep plaque away and maintain your gums healthy. If, however, you currently have gum disease, it is important to see your family dentist as soon as you can to get the treatment you need. He or she can inspect your gums, clean your teeth and offer tips on keeping your teeth and gums in good shape.

Maintenance is essential

Studies have also shown that a woman is more susceptible to gum disease during her second month of pregnancy and also around the eighth month stage of pregnancy. It seems that many women avoid going to the dentist during pregnancy and that can cause problems with the birthing process; especially if gum disease develops. That is why it is important to talk with your O.B.G.Y.N. on the progress of your pregnancy and the condition of your teeth and gums.

What does the research tell us?

Scientists have found it is the bacteria in plaque that eventually leads to gum disease. It can be a mild inflammation or become a serious concern when the gums pull away from the teeth and bones of the mouth – because this is when it could cause a loss of teeth. New studies have shown in the past that gum disease which is severe can lead to a low birth weight, a preterm birth and a restriction of foetal growth of the baby. In addition, gum disease also offers a higher risk to a heart attack or stroke. It is the bacteria – if it enters the blood stream – that can cause inflammation in the body, especially the placenta.

To conclude, before, during and after pregnancy, be sure to have a dental check up and to talk with your gynaecologist on any oral health concerns you might have, because your health and your newborn baby’s health are important.

Tags: fertility, gum disease, gum disease and fertility, oral health
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What can be done by City of London dentists to save damaged teeth?

January 12th, 2012

There are many reasons why teeth are damaged or broken, and among these are:

Bruxism or teeth grinding.
Improper bite.
Injury or accident.
Gum disease, infection and tooth decay.
Excessive teeth whitening.
Over-wearing of dentures.
Medications.
Unbalanced diet, acidic foods and malnutrition.

The outer enamel surface of teeth is there to protect the teeth and keep them strong. When teeth become worn and discoloured, the outer enamel surface is weakened and this may result in broken teeth or tooth loss. Having regular dental check-ups can help you and your dentist spot teeth that are becoming worn for preventative care. If you have damaged a tooth don’t wait to see your dentist, get dental advice immediately to prevent infection.

Treatments for damaged teeth

Getting early treatment for damaged teeth can save your natural teeth and enhance your health. A range of treatment options exist, such as:

Root canal treatment.
Tooth-coloured Fillings.
Dental inlays or crowns.

Root canal treatment clears infection from the pulp of the tooth and saves you from losing your teeth as a result of tooth decay or infection. Fillings are also a good way to restore damaged teeth and involve using composite resins or porcelain to build up the outer surface of the tooth or to fill teeth cavities, to strengthen your natural teeth and prevent the spread of decay. A special light is applied for fast setting so your teeth can be fixed within one appointment.

An inlay or onlay is used where a filling isn’t sufficient but tooth damage is not enough to warrant crown treatment. Your damaged tooth is rebuilt naturally using a filling-crown combination in tooth-coloured porcelain. Dental cement is used to bond the inlay/onlay to your tooth. Dental crowns are designed to fit over your damaged tooth to strengthen it and give you a natural-looking replacement tooth. Damaged teeth are not always strong enough for a filling and may require root canal treatment, before a crown is used to secure the tooth and give you back your healthy natural-looking smile.

Tags: crowns, damaged teeth, fillings, oral health, root canal
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City of London dentists look at the relationship between oral health and weight loss

December 11th, 2011

It may seem odd to link oral health and weight loss, but many of the foods that contribute to weight gain also increase the risk of oral health problems. Choosing to lose weight can therefore also improve your oral health as well as your general health.

Eating and oral health

Your body relies on the foods you eat to get all the nutrients it needs to function properly. Some foods are much more beneficial than others, while eating certain foods on a regular basis can increase the risk of health complications. Foods that are high in sugar increase the risk of oral health diseases, including tooth decay and gum disease, because they cause bacteria in the mouth to produce harmful plaque acids that assault the defensive enamel exterior of the teeth. Once the enamel is damaged, it cannot be regenerated and so the tooth is left susceptible to damage and decay.

Eating a lot of sugary foods also increases the chance of weight gain, as these foods are often high in calories and if you take in more calories than you use this leads to weight gain. Foods that are high in sugar include cakes, biscuits, sweets and chocolate. Studies have also shown that poor oral health is linked to an increased risk of serious health problems, including heart disease and strokes, both of which are also associated with obesity.

Losing weight

Losing weight is notoriously difficult, but it can be done and the winning formula is very simple. In the vast majority of cases, eating fewer calories and increasing the sum of exercise you do will help you to lose weight. Healthy eating is very important as a good, balanced diet will provide your body with all the vitamins and minerals it needs. A good diet should include foods from all the major food groups, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, fruits and vegetables. The bulk of your diet should be made up from complex carbohydrates, such as potatoes, cereals, bread, rice, pasta, fruit and vegetables.

Most people enjoy a sweet treat now and again but it is important to keep an eye on the amount of sugar you consume, as taking in large amounts of sugar will damage your teeth and increase the risk of developing serious illnesses such as diabetes.

Tags: dental health, healthy eating, oral health, Weight loss
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City of London dentists look at the link between oral health and general well-being

December 9th, 2011

When it comes to one’s general health there are many factors that can have an impact – and that of course includes dental hygiene and regular visits to your dentist. That is why it is important to consider all aspects of your lifestyle to ensure you are able to life as healthy and fulfilling a life as possible.

To begin with diet is an extremely important part of a healthy lifestyle. Eating healthily helps to boost the body’s immune system and ensures you take in all the essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals to function effectively. If you can’t eat certain foods because of an allergy or an existing health condition, you may benefit from taking supplements and you should ask your doctor for advice on this issue. To prevent issues with teeth you should limit your intake of food containing high levels of sugar.

Exercise is also key to living a healthy life and you should try to exercise three to four times a week for at least half an hour. Team sports and activities such as cycling, swimming and canoeing can make exercise more exciting – you don’t have to force yourself to attend the gym as there are alternatives. Exercise can be a great outlet for stress, anxiety and is a good way to meet other people.

Oral health is also important because it can contribute to your overall health. Many people are aware of the importance of having a healthy mouth but they don’t follow a rigorous daily oral hygiene routine. It is also advisable to visit your dentist so they can check for any problems and a dental cleaning can also help eradicate many developing concerns.

Tags: dental health, general health, healthy living, oral health
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City of London dentists examine the reasons why a visit to the dentist is so important

December 5th, 2011

For many adults visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience, and it is the case that a lot of these individuals suffer from anxiety or dental phobia. However, going to the dentist is really important and should be done so regularly. To beat the onset of dental anxiety in adulthood it is beneficial to introduce children to their dentist from an early age.

If children are introduced to the dentist from an early age, they will get used to going to the dentist and can form a trusting and friendly relationship. This bond will go a long way to preventing any negative conditions that can come about as a consequence of not caring for your teeth, which means the child should require less treatment in the future.

Most parents don’t take their children to the dentist until they start school, but dentists it is said that parents should do this within the first year of their life. Increasingly, young children are suffering from preventable illnesses, such as tooth decay, and dentists are seeing children as young as two with cavities – so it is important that children attend regular check-ups.

The increasing number of children with oral health conditions is attributed to the modern diet, which increasingly consists of convenience foods and sugary, fatty snacks. Parents struggle to control what their children eat as shops are full of chocolate bars, sweets, cakes, biscuits and crisps – all these foods can increase the amount of bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to plaque build-up. Plaque is a sticky substance that clings to the surfaces of the teeth, which leads to the production of harmful acids that attack the enamel surfaces of the teeth and make them more vulnerable to decay.

In order to prevent harmful oral health conditions, it is important that children learn how to look after their teeth and gums. This involves learning about oral hygiene, as well as healthy eating and the potential dangers related to poor oral health.

Tags: dental health, good oral health, oral health, oral hygiene
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The importance of attending oral cancer screenings at City of London Dentists

November 18th, 2011

When thinking about cancer many forget about the dangers of oral cancer and even more forget that your dentist should be the first stop to diagnosis the disease.

Oral cancer usually starts off in the mouth as a small spot or sore, which are commonly white or red and can be located in any part of the mouth. If untreated, these sores can affect any area of your mouth, including your gum tissues, tongue, palate, lips and lining of the cheeks. Oral cancer also occurs more regularly in people who smoke and if you combine this with the consumption of alcohol you greatly increase your risk of developing the disease. Signs of oral cancer may include: colour changes in your oral tissue, difficulty with chewing, speaking, swallowing or moving your jaw and tongue, sores in the mouth that easily bleed and do not heal, lumps or thickening rough spots, small eroded areas in the mouth and pain, tenderness or numbness on the lips and inside of the mouth.

By visiting your dentist more regularly you can significantly decrease your chances of suffering with oral cancer, as oral cancer screenings are part of your routine dental examination. It is therefore important that you have regular full mouth check-ups, so your dentist can detect the early stage of cancer and treat it. Some spots or sores located in the mouth may not be cancer, but it is always best to check just in case and your dentist will perform a brush test to ensure the sore or spot is not dangerous. If anything is found to be wrong with the sore then it will be removed in a separate procedure, but it is important to know that positive results from the brush test will be confirmed first by incisional biopsy and histology.

Remember it is important to visit your dentist for an oral cancer check-up, as on average only half of those diagnosed with oral cancer will survive past five years. However, oral cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer if found at an early stage.

Tags: Cancer screening, oral cancer, Oral cancer screening, oral health
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Routine visits to City of London dentists will help keep your oral health in check

November 10th, 2011

We all know that our teeth are probably one of the most important parts of our bodies. Why not when they are the key element to a dazzling smile, and who doesn’t want one of those? But, in order to make sure that your smile is perfect you should have a regular check-up, because even though your smile may look good to you there may be serious underlying problems. These can have a serious effect on the teeth and ruin your smile later on.

The routine dental visit

When you have finished eating, plaque starts to build up on the teeth within 15 minutes. If this is not removed thoroughly and effectively then this can lead to tooth decay, which will flourish if not treated correctly.

Tooth decay itself is the most common of all disorders and, believe it or not, is second only to the cold. It is caused due to the acid of the plaque left on the teeth liquefying the enamel and this then leads to cavities (holes) in the teeth, which result in tooth decay. These cavities can be painless and remain undetected at first but can result in the nerve and blood vessels in the tooth being destroyed. Ultimately, it can result in the loss of your tooth and a great deal of pain.

Prevention

If you go for regular dental check-ups then this can be avoided, because cavities can be detected in their early stages during a routine check-up, as they may show up on x-rays before they are even detectable to the naked eye.

There are other issues as well, such as periodontitis and gingivitis, which can occur by not treating your teeth properly; you may not even be aware of them until it is too late. So make sure you make regular visits to your dentist to keep your teeth in check, because you don’t want to lose that wonderful smile now do you?

Tags: Dental check up, gum disease, oral health, routine dental visit
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City Of London dentists look at how you can make teeth cleaning fun for your children

November 6th, 2011

Is your child at the age where they are becoming more eager to take care of them? It is quite an exciting time for both children and parents when kids start to learn how to take on more responsibilities. Starting off with their first steps and words, then on to potty training and later learning about general and dental hygiene, a child can progress quickly and thoroughly if they have a good teacher.

A general rule of thumb is to wash your children’s teeth until they are seven years of age and then show them how to do it themselves. There are many ways to make something as mundane as brushing teeth entertaining for your children. The best way to teach them how to take care of themselves is by making the chore fun!

Another approach to encouraging your children to brush their teeth correctly is to create a positive environment. When you show enthusiasm, your child will follow suit, so why not entertain while you brush, by tap dancing, singing, or making jokes? You could also find a radio or CD player that plays their favourite music, as a reward for brushing their teeth.

Enhance their enjoyment of teeth brushing, by turning it into a number game, counting up to ten for each part of the mouth they clean. This will also allow them to know when the tooth brushing will end and thus they won’t become as restless and fidgety, wondering when the chore of tooth brushing will be over.

The key to teaching your children great hygiene practices is to make it fun. You can make your own technique, tweak it to their personality and watch and observe the results!

Tags: Children's oral health, Dental cleaning, oral health, Teeth cleaning
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