Here at The Town House Dental Practice in Tunbridge Wells, we care about the wellbeing of our patients. From our wonderful team, here are thirteen of our best oral care tips:

1. Brush properly and regularly

It’s easy to rush those activities we perform every day, but brushing your teeth isn’t something to skimp on. Slow down, be methodical, and get into all the nooks and crannies! We recommend brushing your teeth for 2 minutes in the morning (before eating and drinking) and in the evening before bed. 

2. Floss daily

Flossing each day is one of the most common pieces of advice given by dentists and hygienists, but it is also one the most ignored. It might feel like your mouth is clean after brushing your teeth, but even the best toothbrushes can’t get everywhere. The small gaps between your teeth are breeding grounds for trapped food residue, as well as bacteria and plaque, which in turn can lead to gum disease. Just a few minutes of flossing a day is easy to do and prevents all kinds of problems down the road.

3. Consider mouthwash

Mouthwash can be a valuable addition to your daily oral hygiene routine, offering benefits beyond just fresh breath. Incorporating mouthwash into your morning and evening regimes helps reach areas of the mouth that may be missed during brushing and flossing, helping to reduce plaque buildup and combat bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease. While not everyone may require mouthwash, individuals prone to dental issues or those looking for extra protection against oral health problems may find it beneficial. Ideally, mouthwash should be used after brushing and flossing to maximise its effectiveness. Incorporating it into your routine once or twice daily, particularly before bedtime, can help maintain optimal oral health and promote a clean, fresh mouth throughout the day.

4. Schedule six-monthly dental check-ups 

Dental professionals can spot the signs of decay and related problems well before they need serious intervention. Prevention is always better than cure, and a minor treatment than a major treatment. If you are a current patient you can book online with us here, and if you would like to join our dental practice, we are always happy to website new patients. 

5. Teach your kids to enjoy the dentist

Dentistry has changed dramatically in the past few decades, and yet many still think of it with trepidation. Here at The Town House, we work hard to foster a comfortable, safe environment where adults and children alike can receive pain-free treatment from our friendly staff. If children enjoy their visit to the dentists, they won’t avoid it in the future, and will keep on top of their oral health. All children under 5 are welcome free of charge here at The Town House and we offer fantastic youth memberships for children ages 6 and above.

6. Increase your calcium intake

Calcium helps build and strengthen your bones, along with your teeth, but a lack of calcium can result in brittleness and increased sensitivity. Boost your levels by eating vegetables that are high in calcium, such as kale, broccoli, squash, beans and pak-choi, or dairy products such as milk and cheese. Supplements can also help, but there’s no substitute for healthy eating. 

7. Eat a well-balanced diet

However well you brush and floss your teeth, your body requires an array of nutrients for robust health. When it has what it needs, your body will divert its energies to taking care of your teeth and gums. A healthy mouth starts with a healthy body. 

8. Quit smoking

There are numerous reasons to leave tobacco behind, among which is the effect it has on your teeth. Tobacco use can permanently stain and even erode teeth. 

9. Limit tea and coffee intake

Tea and coffee can also stain and erode enamel. While many consider tea and coffee-drinking a cherished habit, we recommend limiting yourself to a single cup in the morning (after brushing your teeth), or at least reducing your intake.

10. Drink more water

Drinking water plays a crucial role in maintaining good dental hygiene and overall oral health. Not only does water help to keep the mouth moist and wash away food particles and bacteria, but it also helps stimulate saliva production. Saliva is essential for neutralising acids produced by plaque bacteria, which can otherwise lead to tooth decay and cavities. Additionally, staying hydrated with water helps to dilute sugars and acids in the mouth, reducing the risk of enamel erosion and tooth decay. Opting for water over sugary or acidic beverages can also help prevent staining and keep the mouth feeling fresh.

11. Avoid carbonated drinks

More than most other consumables, the carbonation in soda, beer and sparkling water erodes the surface of your teeth. We recommend cutting it out completely, if possible or reducing your current intake. 

12. Tongue health

Cleaning your tongue is a great addition to your daily routine to help maintain good oral hygiene. The tongue has bacteria, food particles, and dead cells, which can contribute to bad breath, plaque buildup, and other oral health issues if not removed regularly. Ideally, you should clean your tongue every time you brush your teeth, which is typically twice a day. However, some people may benefit from cleaning their tongue more frequently, especially if they have a coated or hairy tongue, which is more prone to bacterial accumulation. To clean your tongue effectively, use a tongue scraper or the back of your toothbrush to gently scrape the surface of your tongue from back to front. Rinse the scraper or brush under running water after each pass to remove debris, and repeat until the tongue appears clean. Be sure to avoid aggressive scraping, which can cause irritation or damage to the delicate tissues of the tongue. Adding tongue cleaning into your daily oral care routine can help improve breath freshness, reduce bacteria in the mouth, and promote overall oral health.

13. Harness the power of your smile

Here at The Town House, as well as providing the optimal teeth hygiene tips, we offer a range of cosmetic treatments, from whitening to veneers and teeth straightening, along with other, more intensive treatments such as dental implants. Oral hygiene is important, but so is the assurance a gleaming, healthy smile can give you. Whether at a job interview, in a networking meeting or on a much-anticipated date, your smile can give you confidence, and confidence can open doors that might otherwise remain shut.