Author: Aura Dental

Invisalign, the microbiome and enhanced dental health

The fascinating world of oral health goes beyond the visible part of our smile. As a dental practice, we hold a profound respect for the invisible but pivotal players in dental health – the oral microbiome. These tiny organisms residing in our mouths greatly influence the health of our teeth and gums. Another revolutionary player that has reshaped the dental world in recent years is Invisalign St John’s Wood – a clear aligner that offers a convenient and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional braces. In this article, we will unravel the intricate relationship between clear aligners, the oral microbiome, and dental health.

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Understanding the oral microbiome

Our mouths are home to billions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, collectively referred to as the oral microbiome. These microscopic organisms, when in balance, contribute to our overall health by aiding in digestion, boosting our immune system, and even protecting against harmful pathogens. However, any disruption in this delicate balance can lead to dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. As dental professionals, we emphasise the importance of maintaining this balance through proper oral hygiene and a healthy diet.

Invisalign’s role in maintaining the oral microbiome

Now, you may wonder, how does Invisalign St John’s Wood tie into all of this? The beauty of clear aligners lies in the design that facilitates the maintenance of a healthy oral microbiome. Unlike traditional braces, which can trap food particles and make thorough cleaning challenging, clear aligners are removable. This allows for better oral hygiene, thus preventing an imbalance in the oral microbiome that could otherwise lead to dental problems.

Moreover, these aligners are made of a clear, smooth plastic that is less likely to irritate the gums and mouth. This decreases the risk of inflammation, which can upset the oral microbiome. By offering a comfortable and hygienic solution, these aligners support a healthier oral environment conducive to a balanced microbiome.

Enhancing dental health through the microbiome

The integration of clear aligners into our practice has revolutionised the way we address dental alignment issues. We now have a tool that not only straightens teeth but also promotes a healthier oral microbiome, ultimately enhancing overall dental health. We encourage our patients to see them as more than just a path to a straighter smile – it is an investment in their oral health, as it aids in maintaining a healthy microbiome.

Clear aligners also provide the opportunity for regular professional dental check-ups, allowing us to monitor your oral microbiome and detect any potential issues early. With Invisalign St John’s Wood, you receive comprehensive dental care that addresses the aesthetics and health of your teeth while taking into consideration the pivotal role of the oral microbiome.

Conclusion: a healthy smile and a balanced microbiome

As a dental practice, at Aura Dental, we strive to provide care that combines innovation with a holistic understanding of oral health. Clear aligners and the oral microbiome represent two significant aspects of this approach. We hope that through this understanding, our patients will appreciate the importance of maintaining a balanced microbiome for better dental health and the role these can play in achieving this.

Embracing the cutting-edge technology of clear aligners and recognising the impact of the oral microbiome, we’re committed to helping our patients achieve not just beautiful smiles, but also healthier ones. With the right care, you can enjoy the benefits of a straighter smile, a balanced oral microbiome, and improved dental health. Together, we can embark on this journey towards a brighter and healthier smile.

A dentist perspective: unveiling the link between diabetes and oral health

From our vantage point as your dentist St John’s Wood at Aura Dental, it’s apparent that oral health and systemic diseases are not distinct entities; they’re intricately interconnected. Particularly, the tie between diabetes and oral health issues is a relationship that has captured our attention. This association is significant to our practice, as we routinely manage patients who juggle both their diabetic condition and oral health. This relationship underpins the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach in our dental practice and as your dentist St John’s Wood.

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The impact of diabetes on oral health

Diabetes, a metabolic disorder that impacts blood sugar levels, doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It has far-reaching effects on various body systems, including oral health. To put it simply, the presence of persistently high blood sugar levels in a diabetic patient can precipitate a host of oral health issues. The most common ones include gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, dry mouth, burning mouth syndrome, and thrush. Additionally, slow healing after dental procedures, which can be a significant concern for patients, is often a consequence of uncontrolled diabetes.

Interestingly, it’s not just a one-way street; poor oral health can adversely affect diabetes control. Severe gum disease may increase blood sugar levels, leading to a vicious cycle of worsening oral health and uncontrolled diabetes. Understanding this reciprocal relationship guides our practice to address the issue holistically.

Our role as dentists in managing oral health in diabetic patients

As dental professionals, we play a vital role in managing oral health in individuals with diabetes. The first step is awareness. We ensure that our patients understand the connection between diabetes and oral health and the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular dental visits, timely treatment of dental issues, and good dental hygiene are key components of managing oral health in individuals with diabetes.

Furthermore, we understand the value of coordinating care with other healthcare professionals. We collaborate with endocrinologists and primary care physicians, sharing important information regarding patients’ oral health status, which can significantly influence diabetes management.

Promoting proactive oral health practices for diabetic patients

Proactive oral health practices are an integral part of our approach to managing oral health in diabetic patients. Our team emphasises the importance of regular dental check-ups, not only to catch and treat oral issues early, but also to provide professional teeth cleaning that goes beyond what a toothbrush and floss can do. We also suggest specific oral health products tailored for individuals with diabetes to help control oral symptoms and promote overall oral health.

Equally important is dietary guidance. We help our patients understand how their food choices can impact both their diabetes and oral health. Sugary and starchy foods can cause spikes in blood sugar and also contribute to tooth decay. Thus, we guide our patients towards a diet that is beneficial for both their systemic and oral health.

In conclusion, the connection between diabetes and oral health is complex and multi-faceted, but it’s not insurmountable. As your dentist St John’s Wood, we remain committed to our role in helping patients navigate this relationship, manage their oral health, and, consequently, their diabetes better.

How Teeth Whitening Can Improve Your Confidence

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Our smile is one of the first things people notice about us. Our smile is a signal of happiness, friendliness, and approachability. It can help convey positive emotions and create a sense of connection with others.

Smiling can actually trigger a positive feedback loop by signalling happiness to your brain. It can help improve your mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. It can also help build rapport and make you appear more likeable and trustworthy, potentially leading to better relationships and opportunities.

Discolouration of our teeth is one of the leading reasons people tend to hide their true smile. Given modern food and drink, staining of teeth is almost inevitable, but for some of us it is harder to get rid of those stains properly. Apart from cleaning and polishing your teeth with the hygienist to keep them as bright as possible, teeth whitening London is a very popular treatment to overcome staining, and bring a sparkle back to that smile.

Teeth whitening is a popular dental procedure that aims to lighten the colour of the teeth and enhance their appearance. Here are some benefits of teeth whitening:

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1. Enhanced Aesthetics: Teeth whitening London can significantly improve the appearance of your smile by removing stains and discoloration. It can help brighten your teeth, making them look healthier and more attractive.

2. Increased Confidence: A brighter smile can boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. When you feel good about your teeth, you’re more likely to smile freely and feel more comfortable in social and professional interactions.

3. Youthful Appearance: Teeth naturally darken with age due to various factors like lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and certain medications. Whitening your teeth can help reverse the signs of ageing, making you look younger and more vibrant.

4. Removal of Stains: Teeth whitening treatments effectively remove stains caused by various factors such as coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine, and certain foods. It can help eliminate both extrinsic (external) and intrinsic (internal) stains, resulting in a cleaner, brighter smile.

5. Non-Invasive Procedure: Teeth whitening is a non-invasive dental procedure that typically does not involve any drilling or removal of tooth structure. It is a relatively simple and painless way to enhance the appearance of your teeth.

6. Quick Results: Professional teeth whitening treatments often provide noticeable results within 2-3 weeks. Dentist-supervised kits can give you whiter teeth within a short period which will last longer.

7. Customised Approach: With professional teeth whitening, your dentist can tailor the treatment to your specific needs. They can adjust the strength of the whitening agents and the duration of the treatment based on your preferences and the condition of your teeth.

So if you find yourself hiding your smile, there are ways to make your teeth whiter and brighten up your confidence.

It’s important to note that teeth whitening London may not be suitable for everyone. It is advisable to consult with our dentist at Aura Dental in St John’s Wood to determine the best whitening method for you, especially if you have dental restorations or underlying dental conditions. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene habits and making healthy lifestyle choices can help prolong the results of teeth whitening.

Debunking dental myths: Invisalign facts for the enlightened patient

In the world of dental health and aesthetics, myths and misconceptions are rampant. As a leading dental practice, we’re committed to providing you with the most accurate and reliable information. This dedication prompts us to address one of the most discussed topics in orthodontics: Invisalign St John’s Wood.

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Clear aligners have significantly revolutionised the orthodontics world. They are a clear, comfortable, and convenient alternative to traditional braces that’s taking the industry by storm. However, they are also shrouded in some confusion, leading to various myths and misconceptions that can be misleading for potential patients.

Clear aligners are for all ages

One of the prevalent myths surrounding clear aligners is that they are only for teenagers or young adults. The truth, however, is quite the opposite. At our practice, we’ve witnessed first-hand the power of clear aligners in transforming the smiles of people across all age groups. Age isn’t a barrier when it comes to seeking the smile of your dreams.

Clear aligners are tailor-made for each patient, irrespective of age. Whether you’re a busy professional seeking a discreet solution for your smile or an active senior looking for comfort and convenience, clear aligners could be the perfect fit.

Clear aligners can correct various dental issues

Another myth that we often hear is that clear aligners are only suitable for minor cosmetic fixes. Contrary to this myth, clear aligners have proven highly effective in correcting a wide array of dental issues. These range from simple cases, like slightly crooked teeth or minor spacing issues, to more complex problems such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, and severe crowding.

The key lies in the technology behind clear aligners. The system uses 3D imaging and planning software to create a unique treatment plan for each patient. This high level of customisation ensures that clear aligners can cater to a wide spectrum of dental needs.

The treatment time for clear aligners varies per individual

We often encounter the belief that all clear aligners treatments take the same amount of time. This is far from accurate. The truth is, the duration of treatment with clear aligners depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the patient’s compliance with wearing the aligners, and the individual’s biological response to treatment.

While some people may see results in as few as six months, others might need a longer treatment duration. It’s important to remember that each patient is unique, and so is each treatment journey.

Clear aligners are barely noticeable

Many patients are concerned about the visibility of their orthodontic appliances. One of the unique selling points of Invisalign St John’s Wood is their discreet nature. clear aligners are made from clear, smooth plastic that’s virtually invisible.

This means you can continue with your daily routines and social interactions without feeling self-conscious about your smile. At our practice, we’ve seen patients exuding confidence during their clear aligner treatment, all thanks to the system’s barely-there appearance.

We hope that by debunking these common clear aligners myths, we’ve helped to clear up any confusion you might have had. Our dental practice, Aura Dental, is dedicated to ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about your dental health and aesthetic goals. If you have any more questions or wish to discuss the potential of Invisalign St John’s Wood for your smile, we’re just a phone call away.

The role of a dentist in preventive dentistry

A visit to our dental practice, Aura Dental, is more than just a simple check-up; it’s a journey towards optimal oral health. We firmly believe in the power of preventive dentistry, a holistic approach that focuses on preventing oral diseases before they even start. This philosophy goes beyond merely treating symptoms and seeks to eradicate the root causes of dental issues, ensuring a healthier and brighter smile for patients visiting us as their dentist in St John’s Wood.

preventive-dentistry

Preventive dentistry is not just about cleanings and fillings; it encompasses a wide range of services designed to promote and maintain good oral health. We offer comprehensive care to our patients, including regular dental check-ups, teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and patient education. Our aim is to empower you with the tools and knowledge to take control of your dental health.

Why we champion preventive care

As dentists, we understand the consequences of neglected dental health and how it can affect one’s overall wellbeing. That’s why we are passionate advocates for preventive dentistry. It’s the key to a life free from oral diseases, expensive restorative treatments, and most importantly, the discomfort often associated with dental problems.

Preventive care is not just about catching dental issues early, but also mitigating potential future issues. With regular check-ups from our dentist in St John’s Wood and hygiene appointments, we can detect early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, among other conditions. We can also monitor your oral health for any changes, helping us anticipate and preempt any possible issues.

Education: an integral part of our practice

We believe that knowledge is power. Therefore, educating our patients about oral health is an integral part of our practice. We take the time to explain the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

At our practice, we also guide you on the appropriate methods of brushing and flossing, and the right products suitable for your specific dental needs. We take pride in seeing our patients walk out of our clinic with a better understanding of their oral health, armed with practical tips and advice for maintaining it.

Our commitment to your oral health

Our commitment to preventive dentistry is steadfast. We strive to provide exceptional dental care tailored to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Our mission is to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health for a lifetime. To do so, we foster a partnership with our patients, involving them in the decision-making process and offering personalised treatment plans.

We hold ourselves as your dentist in St John’s Wood to the highest standards of professionalism and continually seek to improve our skills and knowledge. Rest assured, we use the latest dental technologies and techniques to provide a comfortable, safe, and efficient treatment experience.

In conclusion, as your partners in oral health, we cannot emphasise enough the importance of preventive dentistry. It’s a long-term investment in your wellbeing and quality of life. By embracing preventive care, we can work together to prevent oral diseases and ensure a brighter, healthier smile.

Why do I need to visit the Hygienist?

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Regular visits to the dental hygienist London are important for maintaining good oral health, which in turn promotes good overall health. It will also help fend off other dental issues which can require additional treatment and cost. At Aura Dental in St John’s Wood, we recommend seeing the hygienist at least once every 6 months. This will ensure that any dental issues are detected early and can be taken care off before it gets worse.

The hygienist London will use a combination of ultrasonic and manual scalers to get between your teeth, into your gums and into those hard to reach places to remove plaque and food build up. This reduces the chances of gum (periodontal) disease, cavities and abscesses…all problems that mean you will need further treatment.

There are several reasons why it is beneficial to see a dental hygienist:

1. Professional Teeth Cleaning: Aura Dental’s hygienists specialise in cleaning and polishing your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which cannot be adequately addressed by regular brushing and flossing alone. This cleaning process, known as scaling, helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

tooth-decay

2. Gum Disease Prevention: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue that can lead to serious consequences if it is left untreated. Our dental hygienists can identify early signs of gum disease and provide necessary treatments or recommend further evaluation by a dentist.

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Stages of Periodontal Disease

3. Oral Health Assessment: The hygienists perform a comprehensive examination of your mouth, gums, and teeth during your visit. They can detect oral health issues such as cavities, oral cancer, gum inflammation, and other dental problems. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and better outcomes.

4. Oral Hygiene Education: Your hygienist London can provide personalised oral hygiene instructions and tips tailored to your specific needs. They can teach you proper brushing and flossing techniques, recommend suitable oral care products, and offer advice on maintaining good oral health at home.

5. Prevention and Early Intervention: Regular dental hygiene visits contribute to preventive dental care. Dental hygienists can apply dental sealants to protect your teeth from decay, administer fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel, and provide insights into healthy dietary choices that help to promote oral health.

6. Support for Overall Health: Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and complications during pregnancy. By maintaining a good oral hygiene routine and visiting a dental hygienist regularly, you can reduce the risk of these associated health issues.

Remember, while dental hygienists play a crucial role in oral health care, it is essential that you also see a dentist for comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis, and any necessary treatments. Regular visits to both the dental hygienist and the dentist can help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

So whether you come to see us at Aura Dental in St John’s Wood, or at another practice, don’t forget to book yourself in for regular hygiene visits.

FAQs about Invisalign answered by our team

If you are an adult who feels that you have missed the window to straighten your teeth, don’t panic!

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In 2023, more adults than ever before are opting to have their teeth straightened and are looking through the many braces and aligners that can be used to help them.

Invisible aligners are a popular orthodontic treatment option for people who want to straighten their smiles without the inconvenience and appearance of traditional metal braces. As a result, many people have questions about invisible aligners before they commit to the treatment.

Our team at Aura Dental can help with all areas of Invisalign St. John’s Wood as, frankly, we have extensive experience working in this area. Our team will be able to assess not only if you are suitable, but will also be able to help with financing your treatment and ensuring that it goes to plan.

So, here we answer 5 commonly searched FAQs about Invisalign St. John’s Wood for you, so you can see if this treatment is right for you.

How do invisible aligners work?

Invisible aligners like Invisalign St. John’s Wood work by gradually shifting the teeth into their correct position. Invisible aligners are made for each patient using 3D scans of their teeth. Patients wear a series of aligners over a period of several months, with each aligner gently moving the teeth a little closer to their final position. The aligners are made from clear and flexible plastic and are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for people who want a discreet treatment option.

Are invisible aligners uncomfortable?

Most people experience some discomfort or soreness when they first start wearing their aligners or switch to a new set. This is because the teeth are being moved into a new position. However, this soreness is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol and ibuprofen. Some people also experience a lisp or speech impediment when they first start wearing their aligners, but this typically ceases after a few days.

How long do I need to wear invisible aligners?

The length of time a person needs to wear invisible aligners depends on the severity of their misalignment and their treatment goals. In general, most people wear their aligners for 12-18 months, although some treatments may take longer. It’s important to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day to get the best results. If you are struggling with this, please call our team.

Can you eat and drink with invisible aligners in?

You should avoid eating and drinking anything other than water while wearing your invisible aligners. This is because the aligners can become stained or damaged, and food particles can get trapped between the aligners and your teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay. You should remove your aligners before eating or drinking and clean your teeth before putting them back in.

How do you clean invisible aligners?

To clean your invisible aligners, you should brush them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or detergent. Avoid using toothpaste, as this can scratch the aligners and make them more visible. You should also rinse your aligners with warm water before and after wearing them. It’s important to keep your aligners clean to prevent any building up of bacteria and plaque, which can cause bad breath and other dental problems.

A simple guide from our dentist on how to floss properly

When you are looking to reduce the chances of tooth decay or to up your dental hygiene, you’ve got to get flossing!

Flossing is an essential part of a healthy oral hygiene routine that can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems.

While it may seem like a relatively new thing, it isn’t. Dental flossing is believed to have originated in prehistoric times when it was made from materials such as animal hair or twigs. The more modern version of dental floss was invented in the early 19th century by Levi Spear Parmly, a New Orleans dentist, who advised that his patients use strands of silk to clean between their teeth.

In theory, this is great, but even in 2023, many people don’t know how to floss correctly or skip this step altogether.

But we can help! At Aura Dental, our dentist St. John’s Wood can help you to find the best flossing technique tailored to you, whether it is using traditional floss, dental tape, a water flosser, or a combination of all three.

If you are looking to start flossing today, though, read on! Our dentist St. John’s Wood discusses five tips on flossing your teeth correctly.

Use the right flossing technique

Our dentist St. John’s Wood states that the right flossing technique involves gently inserting the floss between your teeth, moving the tape or floss up and down in a ‘C’ shape around each of your teeth, and making sure to clean below the gum line. Avoid sawing back and forth or snapping the floss, as this can damage the gum tissue.

Choose the right type of floss

Floss comes in different varieties, including waxed, unwaxed, flavoured, and unflavoured. Choose a floss that feels comfortable for you and is easy to use. If you have tightly spaced teeth or braces, you may need a thinner floss or a specialised floss threader to get between teeth. If you have sensitive gums, try to use a softer and thicker floss that is less likely to damage your gums.

Be gentle

Flossing should be gentle and should not cause pain or bleeding. However, if you haven’t flossed regularly, you may experience some initial discomfort or bleeding, which is a sign of gum disease. Be patient and continue flossing regularly, and the discomfort should subside within a week or two. If it doesn’t, or the bleeding gets worse, then you may need to see our team for an assessment.

Floss at least once a day

To maintain good oral hygiene, you should floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime. Flossing at this time helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth, preventing cavities and gum disease.

Don’t forget to floss the back teeth

Many people forget to floss their back teeth, which are often the most susceptible to cavities and gum disease. Make sure to floss all of your teeth, including the molars in the back of your mouth. You can use a floss pick or water flosser to reach these areas more easily if you are struggling. If you are new to using a water flosser, our team can help you with this, so call us if you are struggling.

A quick guide on what patients need to know about Invisalign

When you are an adult looking for an option to get your teeth straightened, never has there been a better time than in 2023.

about-invisalign

There are now invisible braces which use clear brackets, lingual braces and of course, invisible aligners.

Invisible aligners are a different orthodontic option for those seeking to straighten their teeth, as they rely on pushing the teeth rather than pulling them.

While they offer several advantages there are some key things to keep in mind before starting treatment, which sadly, if they are not known, can cause patients to stop treatment prematurely.

At Aura Dental, our team knows all there is to know about Invisalign St. John’s Wood and will assess whether or not you are a suitable candidate for it. If you are, we will make sure that your treatment goes as planned.

So, here are 5 things to know about Invisalign St. John’s Wood before commencing treatment.

Invisible aligners require discipline and commitment

Unlike traditional braces that are attached to your teeth, invisible aligners are completely removable. This means that you will be responsible for wearing them for the recommended amount of time each day (typically 20 to 22 hours). For successful treatment, it’s important to commit to wearing Invisalign St Johns Wood as instructed and to keep up with the maintenance required to keep them clean and effective. If you don’t, your teeth may revert to their previous positions, or the movement of your teeth may slow.

Treatment time varies

The length of treatment with invisible aligners varies depending on the severity of your orthodontic issues. In general, treatment can take anywhere from around 3 months to about 12, averaging at around 6 months. However, it’s important to be patient and follow your treatment plan closely to achieve the best results.

Aligners may cause discomfort

While invisible aligners are generally more comfortable than traditional braces, they may still cause some soreness. This is especially true during the first few days of wearing a new pair of aligners. Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol and warm salt water rinses can help ease any discomfort.

If, however, the discomfort is unrelenting, then it would be best to see our team so we can assess the underlying cause. In most cases, it is due to the aligners not being correctly fitted.

Oral hygiene is crucial

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when using invisible aligners. Because the aligners are worn for much of the day, food particles and bacteria can easily become stuck in the space between the aligner and your teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease. To prevent this, it’s important to brush and floss regularly and to clean your aligners as directed by your orthodontist.

Not everyone is a candidate

While invisible aligners are a great option for many people, they may not be suitable for everyone. People with severe dental issues may require traditional braces or other more intensive treatments. Additionally, those with certain medical conditions or dental anomalies may not be good candidates for invisible aligners. It’s important to consult with your orthodontist to determine if invisible aligners are right for you.

Tips on brushing technique broken down by our dentist

Good dental hygiene starts with cleaning your teeth at home.

As most people know, brushing your teeth twice a day is important to prevent plaque build-up, tooth decay, and gum disease.

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However, what most people are getting wrong is the technique!

Yes, while it may seem odd, even people who are dedicated to cleaning their teeth may be doing it wrong, and therefore, they may be causing issues with their dental hygiene.

Luckily, it is never too late to learn how to brush your teeth properly and our dentist, St. John’s Wood, can help. Whatever your age, we will be more than happy to help you improve your oral hygiene regime to ensure that your teeth and gums stay in good condition.

So, let’s go back to basics! Here, our dentist St. John’s Wood will go through some tips with you on how to begin using the right brushing technique.

Use the right toothbrush

Our dentist St. John’s Wood recommends that our patients use a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth. A toothbrush with a small head can help you reach all areas of your mouth more easily. Electric toothbrushes can be effective as well, as they provide a more thorough cleaning and help you brush for the recommended 2 minutes.

Brush at the right angle

When brushing your teeth, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth; if you hold it straight against your teeth, it will not be able to clean the entire tooth. The 45-degree angle allows you to clean along the gum line, where bacteria and plaque can accumulate. Use short, gentle strokes to brush back and forth, focusing on one tooth at a time.

If your gums start to bleed as you do this, you may be brushing too hard, so dial it back!

Brush for 2 minutes

For optimum success, brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day. Divide your mouth into quadrants and spend 30 seconds on each quadrant. Don’t rush through your brushing routine, as this can leave some areas of your mouth uncleaned.

To help you along, there are some electric toothbrushes that have built-in timers, so you don’t have to constantly check the time on your watch when brushing.

Don’t forget to brush your tongue

Bacteria can and does accumulate on your tongue, leading to bad breath and other dental problems such as thinning enamel. Aim to brush your tongue gently with your toothbrush, or use a tongue scraper to remove any build-up. If you have a sensitive gag reflex, take care here!

Don’t brush too hard

Dental health is not based on how hard you brush!

Brushing too hard will inevitably damage your tooth enamel and irritate your gums, potentially causing them to recede. Use gentle pressure when brushing your teeth, and let the bristles do the work. If you notice that your toothbrush bristles are looking worn, frayed or flattened, replace it as worn-out bristles won’t clean your teeth properly.

If your teeth and gums often bleed after brushing, you may need to see our team for a brush up on how to best clean your teeth!