Clean teeth and gums

Having a clean mouth is important. In addition to being healthier, it gives you fresh breath and a nicer smile.

When you eat, bits of food, some too small for you to see, remain in your mouth. They feed bacteria that grow in a sticky film on your teeth. This film, called plaque, is the main cause of tooth decay and gum disease.

WHY BRUSH? Brushing your teeth after meals and between-meal snacks not only gets rid of the food particles that you can see, it removes plaque from your teeth. Using a fluoride toothpaste is important because the fluoride can help kill bacteria, as well as make your teeth stronger. Ask your Hygienist to recommend the best toothbrush for you. Generally, a brush with soft, end-rounded or polished bristles is less likely to injure gum tissue. The size and shape of the brush should allow you to reach every tooth. Children may need smaller brushes than those designed for

Merton Dental Centre stocks a number of electric brushes.

WHY FLOSS?

Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gumline, areas your toothbrush can not reach. Because tooth decay and periodontal disease often start in these areas, it is important to clean them thoroughly on a daily basis.

Flossing is a skill that needs to be learned. Do not be discouraged if you find it difficult at first. With practice, you will find that flossing takes only a few minutes of your time each day.

WHAT ABOUT MOUTHRINSES AND MOUTHWASHES?

If used as directed, in addition to brushing and flossing, mouthrinses and mouthwashes can help to prevent tooth decay.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SEE MY DENTIST?

We used to recomend that you come into the Clinic every 6 months. This outdated and old fashioned approach has no real clinical basis at all. Merton Dental Centre will recall you by our computerised system at the interval set in discussion with you, our Patient, our hygienist, and the Dentist. Once your dental health has been assessed, and any problems sorted out, you should probably see your Dentist every 12 to 18 months. To maintain your Oral Health in top condition, you should see your Hygienist every 3 to 4 months. You will be recalled more often if you are prone to Periodontal disease. Infants should see a dentist at about 6 to 12 months of age.