A quick guide to a healthy mouth

Eurico Martins

Portuguese

Married and dad of twin boys aged 3 ½

Dentist since 2006

Studying for a Masters degree at Edinburgh University

Why is it important to have a healthy mouth?

Feel comfortable and without pain

Chew and speak properly

Smile confidently

To have a healthy body

What are the most common dental diseases?

Decay, cavities ( Caries )

Gum disease ( Gingivitis and Periodontitis )

What is the cause?

Poor oral hygiene leads to build up of bacterial plaque

Bacteria uses what we eat and produces sticky acid which breaks down the tooth and harms the gums

There is one VERY BIG problem which is not caused by bacterial

plaque.

Dental Erosion: tooth is being washed away by acid -> will become smaller, brittle and sensitive

Acid can come from the inside (reflux problems or eating disorder) or from the outside in what you eat and drink

Examples of acidic food and drink

Fizzy drinks including diet version and energy drinksFruit juices including diluted squashVinegar, salad dressings, ketchup

Sour and tangy sweetsYogurt, pickles, citrus fruits

What else is really bad for your health?

Stained and yellow teeth

Bad breath

Less saliva

Gum disease

CANCER

How do we prevent problems?

Brush thoroughly twice a day: last thing at night and on one other occasion.

Use toothpaste with fluoride (at least 1350 ppm).

Spit out after brushing but do not rinse with water.

Have less amount and less times sugary food and drink. Preferably only at mealtimes and no more than 4 times per day.

Your mouth is worth a fortune!

You WILL appreciate a healthy mouth for the

rest of your life.

Thank you very much for listening