Disclaimer
The information below is provided as a general guide only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental care. Every patient’s situation is unique. If you are experiencing ongoing issues or have specific concerns, please schedule an appointment with your dentist for personalised advice and treatment.
Prevention and care
We believe prevention is always better than cure. Looking after your teeth and gums properly can help you avoid pain, infection and tooth loss — and keep your smile healthy for life.
Why are teeth so important?
Your teeth play a vital role in everyday life. They help you to:
- Chew food properly, aiding digestion
- Speak clearly and pronounce words correctly
- Maintain the shape and structure of your face
- Feel confident about your appearance
A healthy smile contributes greatly to self-confidence and overall wellbeing.
What can go wrong?
Without good care, teeth and gums can become unhealthy.
Plaque bacteria feed on sugars in our diet and produce acids that attack the enamel. If left untreated, decay can:
- Cause toothache
- Reach the nerve of the tooth
- Lead to infection
- Result in an abscess at the root of the tooth
Plaque can also irritate the gums, leading to gum disease.
Early signs include:
- Bleeding gums
- Puffy or swollen gums
- Red or “bruised-looking” gum tissue
If untreated, gum disease can:
- Cause bone loss around teeth
- Lead to loose teeth
- Result in periodontal abscesses
- Ultimately cause tooth loss
How may these problems be prevented?
1. Attend Regular Dental Check-ups
Routine examinations allow us to detect problems early and provide advice tailored to you. Professional cleaning with a dentist or hygienist also plays an important role in maintaining gum health.
2. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
The most important factor in preventing dental disease is controlling plaque levels through effective toothbrushing and cleaning between the teeth.
Regular attendance with a dental hygienist for professional cleaning as an adjunctive measure.
Toothbrushing
A manual toothbrush can be effective when used properly.
However, electric toothbrushes have been shown to remove more plaque.
At Armagh Dental Clinic, we often recommend Oral-B electric toothbrushes due to their proven plaque removal performance.
- Brush twice daily (Department of Health recommendation).
- Brush for two minutes each time.
- Divide your mouth into four sections (quadrants).
- Clean the outside, inside and biting surfaces of every tooth.
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line.
- Gently skim along the gum margin by around 1mm.
- Use small controlled movements and ensure all surfaces are covered.
- Don’t forget to gently clean your tongue.
Fluoride toothpaste – Is it important?
Yes. All major dental organisations in Ireland and the UK recommend fluoride toothpaste.
Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent decay.
Recommended levels:
- Under 3 years: 1000 ppm fluoride
- Over 3 years and adults: 1350–1450 ppm fluoride
- Adults: typically 1450 ppm fluoride
After brushing:
- Spit out the toothpaste
- Do not rinse with water
- Do not swallow
Leaving a small amount of fluoride on the teeth helps protect them.
Your teeth should feel smooth and clean.
You can also use disclosing tablets (available from pharmacies) to highlight areas of plaque. These are especially helpful for children as an educational tool.
Clean between the teeth
Brushing alone does not clean between teeth effectively. You should use an interdental cleaning aid at least once daily.
Interdental brushes (e.g. TePe)
- These come in different colours and sizes. Your dentist will advise which size is best for you
- Use the largest size that fits comfortably without forcing
- Gently push through the gap and move back and forth, before removing
Dental floss
Floss is particularly useful for tight spaces. How to floss:
- Take about 50cm of floss and hold a short length between your thumb and forefinger
- Wrap around your fingers
- Slide gently between teeth
- Curve it around one tooth and clean the side Repeat on the adjacent tooth surface
- Follow a consistent pattern so you don’t miss areas
- Move to a new section of floss for the next tooth space
Mouthwash
If you use mouthwash:
- Use it at a different time from brushing (for example, midday)
- Do not use it immediately after brushing, as it may wash away fluoride
Diet, nutrition and other advice
Good oral health also depends on healthy lifestyle habits.
- Reduce sugary snacks and drinks
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables
- Avoid frequent snacking on sugary foods and drinks
- Not smoking, or stopping smoking
Gum disease – signs to watch out for
Gum disease is caused by plaque build-up.
Early signs include: Bleeding when brushing, swollen or puffy gums, red or tender gums.
If you notice these symptoms, seek advice from your dentist or hygienist. Professional cleaning combined with excellent home care is the best way to prevent gum disease or its progression
The Key Message
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Spit, don’t rinse
- Clean between your teeth every day
- Eat a balanced diet
- Attend regular dental check-ups
At Armagh Dental Clinic, we are here to support you in maintaining excellent oral health.
Prevention is always easier – and more comfortable – than treatment.
