As a dentist in Thorpe Bay, we understand that having a smile that is healthy inside and out can transform a person’s confidence. Here at Thorpe Bay Dental, we offer a wide range of solutions to issues with the teeth and gums and for the purposes of creating a fantastic looking smile. This guide explores how people can ensure they enjoy good oral health and feel great about how they look.
Clean at home
Most people brush their teeth every day, but many do not spend enough time on this all-important activity. As your dentist in Thorpe Bay, we understand that lots of people spend just a few seconds brushing, and this can be harmful for oral health. A good two minutes is needed to remove all bits of food and any plaque that has formed. We recommend using the timer on a mobile phone to help ensure that the full two minutes is completed.
A medium toothbrush should be used. One that is very soft will be ineffective at cleaning thoroughly, and one that is too hard can cause damage to the teeth, especially when combined with over vigorous brushing. It is important to brush with a toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps to protect the enamel of the teeth and can reduce the risk of developing cavities.
Flossing or using interdental brushes should be completed once per day, ideally before bed. This allows the patient to remove any plaque or remains of food that they have not been able to remove with brushing. Anyone in any doubt about the best technique to use should consult with our dentist in Thorpe Bay to get advice and guidance.
Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups are vital for maintaining good oral health. They allow us to spot the earliest signs of problems before they cause damage to the teeth or discomfort for the patient. Making an appointment with us every six months or so means that we can check that the teeth and gums are in good condition and take any steps that are needed to prevent problems from developing.
A check-up should also involve a visit to the dental hygienist. No matter how thorough the patient is with their brushing and flossing at home, there will always be some plaque that they have not quite managed to remove. A professional clean from us leaves the teeth feeling squeaky clean and can also help to remove stains.
Straighten teeth
Correcting misaligned teeth is not just important for cosmetic reasons. Straight teeth can help the patient to have healthier teeth and gums. This is because teeth that are not straight can be tricky to keep thoroughly clean, as the patient cannot get the brush into overcrowded or crooked teeth and flossing can be problematic too.
There are lots of options for teeth straightening, from traditional braces to clear aligners.This means that whatever the misalignment issue, we can help to ensure the smile looks great and that the teeth and gums are in better health.