Health
When we were little, there was nothing better than a wobbly tooth – it meant the Tooth Fairy was coming!
But as adults, we know it’s important to take good care of our gnashers – especially with National Tooth Fairy Day on 28 February.
But so much more goes into our award-winning smiles than just good teeth. So, get clued up on how to take care of what’s on the inside, too, for a healthy and shining smile.
FIGHTING GUM DISEASE
Gum disease is very common, with 52.9% of people in the UK having gingivitis – the first stage of gum disease – in 2022, according to dental care provider MyDentist.
Gum disease isn’t so easy to spot either as it doesn’t always cause pain.
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, but if it isn’t treated, it can develop into periodontitis, which weakens the bones around the gums, even leading to tooth loss.
We all know to look out for soreness, swelling and blood. But what are the lesser-known symptoms to look out for?
Luckily, Karen Coates, dental nurse and oral health educator at Oral Health Foundation, has shared how you can spot them before it’s too late.
• For more information, please visit: dentalhealth.org
• Sensitive teeth
Do your teeth ache or feel painful when you brush them every day?
Rub a little toothpaste onto the sensitive areas or try a de-sensitive toothpaste when brushing.
If the sensitivity doesn’t improve within two weeks, please visit your dentist.
• Deep grooves
Run your tongue over the top of your teeth. If the grooves between your teeth and gums feel deep, this may be a sign of gum disease.
Your dentist may suggest putting fillings in the grooves to stop the discomfort. However, this is a last resort as these fillings can be temperamental – they can come out regularly!
• Gum recession
Gum recession is where your gum tissue pulls away from your teeth.
It’s easy to spot, too, as with gum recession, you will be able to see the length of your whole tooth, down to the root.
This happens naturally as we age, but visit your dentist if you are worried for further treatment.
TURN BACK TIME
We’re all guilty of going to bed and forgetting to brush our teeth every once in a while.
However, years of lacklustre care can result in our pearly whites losing their shine and our mouths feeling less than fresh.
But is it ever too late to turn back the clock?
In some cases, you might be in luck. So, Karen has collated her top tips for fixing that toothy grin.
• Discolouration
Your teeth can appear more yellow from years of staining from certain foods and drinks, such as coffee and red wine.
They can even go ye
