Adults

The key to keeping a bright healthy smile is to practice good oral hygiene.

Important Dental Considerations

• Cavities - Dental decay develops in areas that are not being cleaned effectively and how quickly decay progresses is determined by many factors like frequency of sugar intake, saliva flow and saliva pH.  Brushing twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and daily flossing are essential for dental health.
• High caries risk - Sometimes the factors which lead to decay far outweigh the protection offered by saliva and cleaning with a fluoridated toothpaste. When this happens someone is described as being at high caries risk and more extensive preventive intervention is required.
• Sensitivity - Sensitivity is often an indication that your mouth is more acidic.  There are many reasons why this could be happening so to identify the underlying cause consulting with your dental professional is recommended.
• Whitening -  Whitening procedures enhance the aesthetics of teeth however minerals are often removed in the process, root surfaces of teeth can become sensitive and the natural translucency of teeth can be lost.  Using Tooth Mousse both before and after whitening procedures is recommended.
• Professional Tooth Cleaning - We are all different in how well we clean and how rapidly we experience the build up of calculus.  To ensure good oral health it is recommended to have a thorough clean and scale on a regular basis.  Your dental professional will guide you on how often that should be.
• Wine and sugary drinks - Dental decay is caused by plaque that is producing strong acids. Sugar is the ideal food for these decay causing bacteria and acidic drinks help create the perfect environment for accelerated fermentation and acid production.  Acidic drinks will also soften teeth and if this is followed by vigorous tooth brushing then erosion of tooth surfaces will occur.
• Gingivitis (gum disease)  - Infections that harm your gums and the bone that holds your teeth in place are called gum disease. The medical name is periodontal or gingival disease. If your gums are swollen and bleed easily, you may have a condition called gingivitis. Infections, if they aren't treated, will cause your teeth to loosen and fall out.
• Ultrasonic, hand scaling/root planning  - These are procedures undertaken to remove hard deposits from around teeth to reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
• Orthodontic treatment - Orthodontic treatment is becoming increasingly popular for adults as less cumbersome and more aesthetic orthodontic procedures evolve.
• Dry mouth/Sjögrens syndrome - Certain medical conditions (eg Sjogrens syndrome) or treatments (eg radiation therapy), as well as side effects from prescription drugs can cause dry mouth.  As well as difficulties with eating, swallowing, speaking and even sleeping, dry mouth can lead to problems with dental decay, erosion and sensitivity.

Useful tips & Advice

Throughout your adult life, it's important to continue to:

• Brushing - Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque-the sticky film on your teeth that's the main cause of tooth decay.
• Flossing - Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under your gumline, before it can harden into tartar. Once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
• Tooth Mousse - Use Tooth Mousse after brushing and flossing for long term protection. Apply a pea sized amount with your finger around the outer surfaces of all the teeth. It can be left in place to dissolve slowly during the night.
• Healthy diet - Limit sugary or starchy foods, especially sticky snacks. The more often you snack between meals, the more chances you give the acids in plaque to attack your tooth enamel.
• Recaldent Gum - Chew Recaldent gum during the day after meals to protect your teeth from acid attack.
• Visiting your Dentist - Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning and checkups.