At Guiney Dental (Ballincollig, Cork), we are lucky to have generations of families as patients. We pride ourselves on providing all of our patients with a friendly, professional service they can rely on. Giving practical and helpful tips to the families that come to us for dental check-ups and treatments is all part of that service.
As dentists in Cork, we meet people from around the county and with every kind of lifestyle. We are regularly asked if it is possible to have healthy teeth for life. The answer is yes. With the right care, you can. Read our top tips below.
Don’t Forget Your Gums
When it comes to oral health, your gums are as important as your teeth. Your gums seal your teeth to prevent food from getting stuck in sensitive areas. Gums keep your teeth where they should be and also form a protective barrier.
Your gums are sometimes the first indicator that there is a problem with your mouth. Swollen gums, bleeding gums and even painful gums are signs you might need to see your dentist.
Take care of your gums by avoiding smoking, flossing away any trapped food debris, brushing thoroughly and eating healthily.
Use The Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste
There are a lot of choices now when it comes to toothbrushes and kinds of toothpaste. Sometimes having more to choose from can make it harder to pick the right one.
Look for a brand you know and trust first of all. For advice on trusted brands, feel free to call our dentists in Classis Lake Retail Centre, Ballincollig, Cork.
Next, choose by need. If you have particularly sensitive teeth, for example, then look for a toothpaste that helps this and avoid abrasive toothpastes. For children, makes sure its sugar-free toothpaste and check for age appropriateness.
Toothbrushes come in different sizes but also different bristle types – soft, medium and firm. We generally advise sticking to a soft toothbrush unless you have been advised otherwise by one of our dentists.
Set a Good Example For Children
Children look up to their parents and often mimic the behaviour, learning how to behave from the grown-ups they love. Children who see their parents taking good care of their teeth and oral health will want to do the same.
Start early and get into the habit of brushing teeth together. Some parents like to teach their children to sing a song whilst brushing to make it fun. The same goes for eating and drinking. Children are more likely to eat and drink what they see their parents eat and drink. Teach them which foods keep their teeth healthy.
Stay Hydrated and Be Aware of Dry Mouth
Your mouth needs saliva as saliva helps to prevent tooth decay. Saliva is created by three pairs of glands in our mouths. It is something that we take for granted and pay little heed too, but it is vital for continued good health.
To help your body produce saliva, make sure your diet is rich in hydrating foods like leafy vegetables, cucumbers and fruit like apples and pears. Drink plenty of water each day and avoid sugary and caffeine-filled food and drink.
A persistently dry mouth may be a sign that you need to see your dentist. There are many reasons that you could experience dry mouth, including medication side effects, alcohol use, smoking, nerve damage and ageing.
Use a Mouth Guard During Sports
All players of team sports should wear a mouth guard or gum shield to protect their teeth. Especially contact sports like GAA, hurling, rugby, soccer and also boxers and martial arts.
A good gum shield can protect you from broken teeth, jaw injuries and can also help prevent neck injuries.
(By the way, our dentists are Cork GAA fans all the way!)
Keep Up Good Habits
We all know that we should brush twice a day, floss in the evenings and so on. It is easy to let habits slip when we are busy, though. Like all aspects of your health, make oral hygiene a top priority that never gets skipped.
Staying on top of your oral health routine will keep your pearly white smile excellent and robust for years to come.
At the very least, keep up these good habits for all the family:
- Brush twice daily
- Rinse, or chew with sugar-free gum, after meals
- Floss once a day
- Drink plenty of water
- Minimise sugar and coffee intake
- Eat a diet with plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit
- Get regular checkups with us at Guiney Dental in Ballincollig, Cork
Act Quickly
Loose teeth, bleeding gums, bad breath – these are all signs that there may be a problem with your teeth or gums. The best way to avoid them becoming bigger or irreversible problems is to make an appointment right away to see your dentist.
Eat For Oral Health
Certain foods support good gum and tooth health. A balanced diet with plenty of fibre-rich vegetables and fruit is an excellent place to start.
Dairy products and foods that contain calcium are good for keeping teeth strong. Healthy protein foods like fish, lean meat, nuts, and bean curd (tofu) can keep teeth healthy.
Find a Dentist You Trust
Are you looking for a friendly and caring dentist in Cork? Get in touch with award-winning Guiney Dental in Ballincollig, Cork.
Book an Appointment on 021 4810535 or request an appointment online.