Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health, but navigating the world of dental care can often feel overwhelming. With conflicting advice and endless products on the market, how can you make the best choices for your teeth?
In this blog post, we’ll tackle three common dental dilemmas to ensure you make the right choices for dental hygiene and a healthy smile. Still confused? Ask your dentist – a good dentist (like any member of the talented team at our Wortley clinic) will always be able to answer your questions.
1. Fluoride: good or bad?
Fluoride has been a hot topic for decades. While it’s widely recommended by dentists, some remain sceptical about its safety and efficacy. So, is fluoride friend or foe?
The case for fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and prevents cavities. It works by re-mineralising enamel and making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth. This is why fluoride is a key ingredient in most toothpastes and why it is added to public water supplies in parts of the UK where natural levels of fluoride are low. Water fluoridation has the support of the World Health Organisation, professional health bodies in the UK such as the British Medical Association and British Dental Association, and the US Center for Disease Control.
Decades of research support the efficacy of fluoride in reducing tooth decay. According to a report by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), children and young people in areas in England with higher fluoride concentrations are up to 63% less likely to be admitted to hospital for tooth extractions due to decay than those in areas with low fluoride concentrations. The same report shows that in the most deprived 20% of areas in the UK, the chance of 5 year old children having cavities was 25% lower in areas with a fluoridation scheme than in areas without.
Concerns about fluoride
Despite its benefits, some critics argue that excessive fluoride exposure can lead to dental fluorosis, or more serious health issues. However, these concerns typically arise from consuming significantly higher levels of fluoride than what is found in water supplies or toothpaste.
At the levels allowed by UK legislation, the only potential negative impact is a mottling on the teeth, in the form of white lines or patches. It is worth noting that dental fluorosis is common in both fluoridated and non-fluoridated areas.
The verdict
For most people, fluoride is a safe and effective way to protect your teeth. It’s important to stick to toothpaste that contains fluoride and follow your dentist’s recommendations for fluoride treatments. If you have concerns, talk to your dentist.
2. Electric or manual toothbrush?
When it comes to toothbrushes, the debate between electric and manual options is a common one. Deciding which is better for your oral health can depend on personal circumstances and preferences.
Manual toothbrush: the traditional choice
Manual toothbrushes have been around for centuries and remain a popular choice due to their affordability and simplicity. They’re lightweight, travel-friendly, and available in various bristle types and designs.
However, the efficacy of a manual toothbrush depends largely on your technique. You need to brush for at least two minutes, twice a day, using proper strokes to remove plaque effectively. When you’re reliant on your own technique and sustaining this for a full two minutes, it can be the case that your teeth aren’t getting the full attention they need. Consider using a timer to ensure you’re brushing for a full two minutes, and ask your dentist or hygienist to check your technique at your next appointment.
Electric toothbrush: the modern option
Electric toothbrushes offer advanced features like rotating, oscillating, or vibrating bristles. These movements make it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas and remove plaque with less effort. They also typically use time programmes to ensure you get a thorough clean for a full two minutes, often prompting you to move to each quadrant of your mouth with a beep so that all your teeth get the attention they need.
Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes are more effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis compared to manual brushes. They’re especially beneficial for people with limited mobility, such as older adults or those with arthritis.
The verdict
Both manual and electric toothbrushes can be effective when used correctly. If you have the budget and prefer convenience, an electric toothbrush is worth the investment and can provide a more thorough clean. Otherwise, a manual toothbrush combined with proper technique can still deliver excellent results.
3. Do I really need to floss?
This is a question dentists and hygienists hear all the time, often from people hoping to avoid this tedious task. Here we’ll look at why flossing is so important.
The role of flossing
Brushing your teeth removes plaque and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth, but it can’t reach the tight spaces between them. That’s where flossing comes in. Flossing helps remove debris and plaque from between teeth and along the gum line, which are areas where cavities and gum disease often develop.
The risks of skipping flossing
Neglecting to floss can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease. Over time, this can result in gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) or even periodontitis (a more severe condition that can cause tooth loss).
Alternatives to traditional flossing
If traditional flossing is difficult for you, there are alternatives which may make it easier. Dental tape or floss picks can be easier and more effective for some. Alternatively, interdental brushes (small brushes designed to clean between teeth) are ideal for wider gaps. A more expensive but very effective and convenient option is a water flosser, which uses a stream of water to thoroughly clean between teeth.
The verdict
Yes, you really do need to floss (or use one of the alternative methods mentioned above) to maintain optimal oral health. Aim to clean between your teeth at least once a day to keep your gums healthy and your smile bright.
In summary
By understanding fluoride, choosing the right toothbrush, and committing to daily flossing, you can take charge of your oral health and prevent common dental problems.
Remember, regular visits to your dentist are just as important as your at home routine. Professional cleaning by a qualified hygienist, and a checkup with your dentist every six months will ensure that your teeth and gums stay in good health. At our clinic in Wortley, between Leeds and Bradford, we offer membership plans which include six-monthly dental health assessments and hygiene appointments, so you can stay on top of your dental healthcare routine. Remember, with the right habits and tools, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.