Although good oral health is associated with white, healthy teeth, the health of the gums surrounding our teeth is equally important. Gum disease is among the leading causes of tooth loss worldwide, while inflammation and recession of the gums can create many oral health problems.

No matter how often you brush and floss your teeth, a regular toothbrush cannot clean every single crevice in your mouth. Your teeth may look and feel healthy, but if you fail to visit your dentist for regular check-ups, you will experience mild gum disease at some point.

At Benhill Dental Practice in Sutton, we are passionate about oral hygiene and we firmly believe that prevention is better than cure.

During your consultation appointment, our dentists and dental hygienists will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, look for signs of inflammation and bleeding and evaluate your gum health. If you require treatment, we will create an individual treatment plan detailing all the procedures and costs involved.

Brush your teeth and gums at least twice a day

This is really important for your oral health. While many people brush their teeth diligently, they forget to brush along the gum line as well as their tongue. This helps to reduce the amount of bacteria that live on the surface of the gums and the soft tissue. During your appointment, our dental hygienist will show you effective ways to brush your teeth and gums.

Floss once a day and rinse with antiseptic mouthwash               

Flossing is as important as brushing in maintaining a good oral hygiene and healthy teeth and gums. A toothbrush can’t always reach in between your teeth in order to clean them properly. Dental floss can remove food and bacteria residue from difficult-to-reach areas in the mouth. Extra protection is also guaranteed when you finish your oral hygiene routine by rinsing your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash.

Visit your dental hygienist

The most important thing to do in order to keep your gums healthy is to visit your dental hygienist at least every six months. They will be able to determine the health of your gums and perform a thorough cleaning, which helps eliminate the bacteria on your teeth before it moves to your gums.