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January is here once again. The festivities are over for another year. The last mince pie has been eaten. And it’s time to start thinking about what you’d like to accomplish in 2022.

Of course, there are the usual goals…

Get fit. Lose weight. Eat healthier.

But why not add dental health to your list of resolutions as well?

The new year is the perfect time to commit to positive changes. It’s a fresh start; a chance to integrate a few new behaviours into your daily routine and turn them into long-lasting and beneficial habits. And to set you on the right track, here we’ve rounded up some simple changes that you can make – to help improve your smile and boost your oral health.

 

5 resolutions to help improve your smile

1. Make time to look after your teeth

This one may be stating the obvious. But no matter how busy you are – no matter how early your morning meeting or how tired you feel before bed – you should always brush your teeth twice a day. It’s also crucial to brush for the full 2 minutes using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.

To help you stick to a good routine, why not treat yourself to some new oral hygiene products?

The ‘Power Smile Bundle’ by Icy Bear Dental is a fantastic option. Designed to enhance and maintain the appearance of your teeth, this features the Icy Bear Sonic Toothbrush (with an in-built 2-minute timer), Icy Bear Diamond Dust Toothpaste, and Icy Bear Whitening Strips – all for the affordable price of just £79.99. Use them in combination for a couple of weeks and, we guarantee, you’ll start to see and feel the difference.

 

 

2. Cut down on snacks

Not only will this support your post-Christmas diet plan, it’s another brilliant dental resolution – that will help to improve your smile and avoid dental issues.

Every time you have a snack, bacteria in your mouth attacks the food and produces acid. Your mouth will eventually create saliva to neutralise this acid. But this can take up to 30 minutes or more – and, in the meantime, the acid can start to erode and weaken the enamel of your teeth.

That’s why it’s much better to stick to three meals a day. Try to cut down on sugary treats. And if you do say yes to a biscuit with your afternoon brew, be sure to follow it up with a drink of water.

 

3. Stay hydrated

It’s well known – getting enough water is essential to our health and wellbeing. But did you know, it can also make a huge difference to the condition and appearance of your teeth?

To promote dental health, you need to keep saliva flowing. Saliva plays a very important role, helping to neutralise the pH level in your mouth and washing away food matter and debris. And by regularly sipping a little water, you can easily promote its production.

Before you head out to work, just fill up your reusable bottle and make sure you get your recommended 6-8 glasses per day.

 

 

4. Quit smoking

This is the hardest dental resolution in our line-up, but it’s also one of the most beneficial.

Stop smoking and you can reap a wide range of health benefits, including improvements to the look of your teeth and your oral health. Tobacco is a major culprit for tooth staining and yellowing, and it can increase your risk of many dental problems – including gum disease and mouth cancer.

In our opinion, it’s a no-brainer. For the sake of your teeth, and your long-term health as a whole, make 2022 the year you finally commit to quitting.

 

5. Visit your dentist regularly

Not been to the dentist in a while? There’s no better time to start than now.

Here at Kiln Lane Dental, we’re currently taking on new members and offer an amazing membership plan for just £14.68 per month. This entitles you to several routine and hygiene appointments throughout 2022, and is a great way to ensure you visit us regularly and maintain your dental health. Just get in touch and we’ll arrange your first dental check-up as soon as possible.

We also offer a range of popular restorative and cosmetic treatments. So if you’re unhappy with your smile, why not book a consultation? Take the first step this January, meet with our professionals and invest in ‘new teeth’ for the new year.

 

 

Improve your smile in 2022 with Kiln Lane Dental

Making any New Year’s Resolution to enhance your dental health is a great choice – whether it be one of our ideas or one of your own. Just be kind to yourself if you have any setbacks and allow time for your new routines to solidify into habits.

It’s also worth remembering, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you’d like further tips on how to improve your smile and stick to your dental resolutions, or to discuss the treatments available at our practice, you’re always welcome to contact us. You can call the team at our St Helens dental practice at any time on 01744 25776. Or if you prefer, send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll respond as soon as we can.

 

Got a gap between your two front teeth? Diastema is a common issue that can be easily fixed.

Diastema

Probably not a word you’ve ever heard before. But it’s just the technical term for a pretty simple dental phenomenon – a gap between the two upper front teeth. Specifically, one that is wider than 0.5mm.

Some people embrace their diastema; it becomes part of their unique look. Think Madonna, Lauren Hutton, Georgia Jagger, and Elijah Wood.

But for others, it can be a part of their appearance they really dislike – a source of embarrassment even, that can have a huge effect on their confidence levels.

And if that sounds familiar, we can help.

Here we take a closer look at diastema teeth and the best ways to close that troublesome gap.

What causes diastema?

A diastema will most commonly appear between the two front teeth. However, they can form anywhere in the mouth and are often caused by a range of contributing factors, including:

• The size of your teeth and jawbone

If a person’s teeth are too small, relative to the size of their jawbone, gaps may develop. Tooth and jawbone size can be genetic, which is often why gapped front teeth run in the family.

• Tooth discrepancies

Similarly, a diastema can also develop between the two front teeth if some of the other teeth in that row are smaller than others – particularly the upper lateral incisors, or if you have a missing tooth.

• Oversized labial frenum

The labial frenum is the tissue that connects the inside of your upper lip to the gum tissue above the upper front teeth. If this is especially large, this can cause a midline diastema to form.

• Gum disease

Sometimes, a diastema can appear suddenly – and this rapid tooth movement can be a sign of advanced gum disease. Gum disease is an infection, in which inflammation of the gums damages the supporting tissue beneath the teeth, causing gaps.

• Poor habits and irregular swallowing reflexes

Long-term pacifier and bottle use in children, thumb sucking, lip sucking, tongue thrusting, poor chewing habits and incorrect swallowing can all contribute to diastema. Over time, the repetitive pressure against the front teeth can push the teeth forward and create a sizeable gap.

• Loss of primary teeth

Diastemata are very common as children lose their baby teeth. In fact, approximately 98% of 6 years olds will have a midline diastema and dentists consider it a normal dental phenomenon in childhood. These are usually temporary and will typically close as the permanent teeth appear.

 

 

Should I be worried about my diastema?

This depends on why it has appeared.

If your gapped front teeth have an underlying cause – such as gum disease – it’s important to seek dental treatment for your oral health. Gum disease is a common condition, but it can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms and dental complications. Therefore, you should address the issue with periodontal treatment as soon as possible.

If your diastema is nothing more than a cosmetic issue, and you have no other symptoms, dental treatment isn’t strictly necessary. The diastema is not a health concern and it won’t do you any harm to leave it as it is. But if you dislike its appearance, it is possible to seek the help of a dentist.

Closing your diastema with orthodontic treatment

Here at Kiln Lane Dental, we currently offer several diastema treatments that help to close the gap between teeth.

There are several orthodontic treatment options, including:

• Invisalign®

Invisalign is a popular procedure for crooked teeth and gaps. By applying gentle pressure, a custom-built series of clear aligners can be used to push the two front teeth little by little, until the gap has been successfully closed.

• Composite bonding

Dental bonding is a pain-free and minimally invasive approach, with impressive results. Composite resin (that has been perfectly matched to your natural tooth colour) can be used to, essentially, fill in the diastema – getting rid of the gap without the need for drills.

• Veneers

Porcelain veneers are also a common cosmetic treatment for gapped front teeth. Fitted to the surface of the enamel, they hide the diastema and create a full, even smile.

 

 

The right treatment for you will depend on the severity and cause of your diastema. And for tailored advice, we recommend getting in touch with our team of specialists. Not only can we offer tips on general oral hygiene – and the best ways to prevent gapped front teeth – we can talk you through the treatment options available at our clinic and advise on the best one for your requirements.

As stated above, treatment for diastema isn’t essential. But gaps between teeth are a dental complaint that many people wish to address for a variety of different reasons. And if you’d like to close any gaps in your teeth, the friendly team at our St Helens dental clinic are always happy to help.

So, why not get in touch? To arrange your consultation, and find out more about diastema closure, either give us a call on 01744 25774 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and a member of the team will get back to you.

 

Everybody knows that brushing your teeth is essential for good oral health.

The questions is, what should you be brushing with – an electric or manual toothbrush?

With claims such as ‘100% plaque removal’ and ‘sonic technology’, it’s easy to assume that electric models are more effective. But is that really the case? It’s a question we get asked all the time, here at Kiln Lane Dental. And so, here, our dental experts attempt to clear up some of the confusion.

 

Are electric toothbrushes better?

It’s fair to say, electric toothbrushes do offer a number of advantages. For example:

 

• they clean hard-to-reach areas

Most models have a small, round head that oscillates (i.e. rotates) and vibrates. As a result, they make it a little easier to reach awkward areas – such as the very back of the mouth – and the micro-movements created by the vibrations can help to remove plaque.

Clinical trials have shown that, due to these features, electric toothbrushes can remove more plaque over time and may help your teeth and gums to stay healthy in the long term. But it’s important to note, this benefit (compared with a regular toothbrush) is only very slight.

 

• they have useful extra features

The key to brushing is doing it gently and for long enough, systematically cleaning the inside and outside surface of each tooth – and an electric toothbrush can help with this.

Most have an in-built timer that will buzz when sufficient time has passed. Some have interval timers, which signal when you should move on to the next section. They may also have pressure sensors, which indicate if you’re brushing too hard and damaging your gums.

Collectively, these features can help you to focus and improve your overall brushing technique.

 

• they’re easy to use

An electric toothbrush will do all the hard work for you. Just hold the brush head over each tooth and let it work its magic. It’s as simple as that. And as a result, they’re often a good option for children (who usually need to be supervised to ensure they’re brushing correctly) and anyone with limited mobility (e.g. people with carpal tunnel, arthritis, Parkinson’s).

Of course, electric toothbrushes do have some disadvantages too – primarily, their cost. Priced anywhere between £30-£200, depending on the model chosen, they’re much more expensive than a manual brush. And the replacement brush heads can be pretty pricey too. So it’s worth considering, do the benefits outlined above really justify this extra expense? We’re not fully convinced…

 

 

It’s how you use it that matters

When it comes to maintaining your oral health, most dental professionals will agree – how you brush your teeth is a lot more important than what you use to brush them. Rather than worrying about whether a manual vs. electric toothbrush is better, you should focus on brushing correctly.

For example, you should:

– brush twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening before bed

– brush for a minimum of two minutes each time

– floss regularly, to remove plaque from areas that can’t be reached with a brush

– use high-quality fluoride toothpaste, such as Icy Bear Diamond Dust

– avoid rinsing with water after you have brushed, as this will remove the fluoride

Yes. Thanks to their high-tech features (e.g. built-in timers, oscillating bristles etc.) electric models can sometimes help to improve your brushing technique. But ultimately, the same outcome can be achieved with both an electric and manual toothbrush. Both will remove plaque and keep your mouth healthy. And the best option for you simply comes down to personal preference.

 

Still not sure whether to use an electric or manual toothbrush?

You’re welcome to contact our dentists for a chat. After all, this is our area of expertise. We’re always happy to offer our advice – whether that be on the pros and cons of a manual vs. electric toothbrush, or more generally, the best ways to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

It may even be worth booking a routine examination or an appointment with our dental hygienist at our St Helens dental clinic to discuss your oral health in detail and ensure that every tooth is in tip-top shape. Either give us a call on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll get back to you.

 

Composite bonding is the modern way to repair damaged or unsightly teeth. It’s fast becoming one of our most popular treatments, here at Kiln Lane Dental – and we can’t say we’re surprised.

Often combined with tooth whitening, it creates an incredible ‘wow’ moment for our patients. The smallest changes can have a massive impact. And the procedure itself offers a range of advantages over alternative dental treatments, such as porcelain veneers and dental crowns.

If you’d like to repair chips, cracks, or discolouration, and create your dream smile, composite bonding should be at the top of your dental wish list. And here we take a closer look at why.

 

5 benefits of composite edge bonding

1. Impressive results

Composite edge bonding can be used to rectify a broad spectrum of flaws. The tooth-coloured resin is simply applied to the problem teeth, helping to restore their shape and improve their colour. Whether you have tiny imperfections in the shape and contour of your incisors, or severe gaps and cracked premolars, the process is exactly the same – and the results are always impressive.

 

 

2. One visit to the dentist

No need to worry about time-consuming consultations and follow-up appointments. Dental bonding is a straightforward and fast cosmetic treatment. In fact, it only requires one trip to the dentist.

Very little preparation is needed before the resin is applied. And, once it’s in place, a high-intensity curing light is used to speed up the hardening process. This means you can comfortably bite down by the end of the appointment and, in as little as an hour, your smile can be completely transformed.

 

3. Non-invasive and pain-free

Not a fan of needles? That’s absolutely fine.

Composite bonding is a needle-free zone. Typically, anaesthetic and drilling will not be required, and the existing tooth enamel doesn’t need to be removed first. Therefore, not only is it a pain-free procedure, it’s also reversible. If you do change your mind about your treatment in the future, the resin can be easily taken off, without causing any permanent damage to your natural teeth.

 

4. Affordable

Pricing can be tricky for composite bonding. The cost varies depending on a range of factors, including the number of teeth affected and the final look you wish to achieve. But there’s one thing we can say for certain – it‘s a significantly cheaper alternative to porcelain veneers.

Whilst veneers start from £580, edge bonding starts from just £220 per tooth. And what’s more, here at Kiln Lane, we offer various 0% payment plans to make the treatment even more affordable.

 

5. Durable

Not only are the results of tooth bonding impressive, they’re also very long-lasting. Providing that you take good care of the composite resin on a day-to-day basis – and regularly visit your dental hygienist – the restoration can last up to 5-7 years before any further attention is required.

 

 

Interested in composite bonding in St Helens?

If you’re looking for a quick and effective way to improve the shape and colour of your teeth, composite bonding could be the solution – and we’re here to help. We’re highly skilled and experienced in this popular dental treatment and live for those spectacular ‘wow’ moments when we lift the mirror and show our patients the unbelievable difference the resin has made to their smile.

To find out if you’re a suitable candidate, the best option is to give us a call on 01744 25776 and book a consultation. One of our expert dentists will examine your teeth and gums and advise on whether dental bonding is the best option for your requirements. Alternatively, you can send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

 

Take a look at your smile.

Do you see any triangle-shaped gaps?

Black triangles between the teeth, also known as gingival embrasures, are pretty common in adults. In fact, according to a recent review, they occur in approximately 67% of people aged 20 and over. But not only do they look unattractive, they can have a significant negative impact on your overall oral health. And if you happen to spot them, it’s usually worth getting them sorted.

 

What causes black triangles between teeth?

Black triangle teeth can occur for many different reasons. Typically, the gaps appear because of oral health issues or your dental anatomy and some of the most common causes include:

• Gum recession

Healthy gum tissue will hug your teeth; essentially, filling the gaps between them. But if this gum tissue starts to recede – perhaps due to your age, smoking habits, periodontal disease, or bone loss at the base of the tooth – this can expose the roots, creating dental black triangles.

• Orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic dental procedures (e.g. braces) can sometimes lead to gingival embrasures. As the teeth are gradually moved into a new position, small gaps may start to appear at their roots. Some orthodontic appliances can also damage the gums, therefore adding to the issue.

• Tooth shape

In many cases, black triangles are simply a result of the person’s natural tooth shape. Whilst some people have rectangular teeth (that are the same width at the gumline and biting point), others have triangular-shaped teeth, which are much narrower at the top than the bottom. And unfortunately, if this applies to you, you are automatically more susceptible to gingival embrasures.

 

 

Should I be concerned about black triangles?

Most people dislike their triangular-shaped gaps because of the way they look.

But it’s important to keep in mind, ‘black triangle teeth’ isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It’s very easy for food particles to get trapped and accumulate in the gap. And this can lead to a range of mild-severe dental issues, including plaque, cavities, tooth decay, gum disease and even dental abscesses.

That’s why, if you have black triangles between your teeth, it’s worth speaking to a dentist – to determine both why it has developed and what you can do to help.

 

How can I treat my black triangle teeth?

Several treatment options are currently available for black triangle teeth, including:

• Composite bonding

This is a minimally-invasive approach, in which composite resin is used to fill the dental black triangle. As the resin is matched to your natural tooth colour, it blends easily into your smile.

• Veneers

To hide the triangular-shaped gaps, and create a more even smile, porcelain veneers can be fitted to the surface of your tooth’s enamel. These are custom-made and designed to last a very long time.

• Invisalign®

Invisalign® can also work very well. By applying gentle pressure, the aligners move the teeth little by little, until a desirable position has been reached and the black triangles have been eliminated.

The right treatment for you will depend on both the severity and cause of your gingival embrasures. Therefore, the best option is to get in touch with our team of specialists – here at Kiln Lane Dental.

Not only can we offer tips on general oral hygiene, and the best ways to keep your black triangles clean, we can discuss the treatments available in detail and advise on the best one for your requirements. We currently offer all of the options outlined above (and more), and can create a bespoke treatment plan to tackle your dental black triangles and realise your dream smile.

 

 

So, why not get in touch?

If you’re suffering from black triangle teeth and would like to ‘mind the gap’, please feel free to give us a call on 01744 25776 and we will book you in for your consultation. Alternatively, you can send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and a member of the team will get back to you ASAP.

 

Let’s face it, 2020 didn’t give us much to smile about.

But thankfully, hope is on the horizon in the shape of the COVID-19 vaccine – and, here at Kiln Lane Dental, we believe there’s plenty of reasons to start showing off those pearly whites. After all, smiling is good for you and can trigger a wide range of surprising benefits.

So, forget about fad diets and unrealistic exercise goals. Why not keep your New Year’s resolution simple this year and smile more? There’s never been a better time to get started.

 

3 benefits of smiling that you need to know

1. Mood

Research has shown that, when you crack a smile, the body releases three hormones: dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. These are the same ‘feel-good’ hormones that are produced when we exercise. Not only can they significantly lift your mood, they can also reduce feelings of stress.

And the best bit? You can fake it ‘til you make it. The release of these hormones is triggered by the movement of our facial muscles – and our brain can’t tell the difference between a real smile and a fake one. So even if you don’t feel like it, force a grin and you can still reap the benefits.

2. Health

Smiling more can boost your health and immune system.

For example, increased levels of serotonin will stimulate white blood cells, which fight against infection in the body. Smiling also activates a chemical reaction in the brain, releasing small hormones known as ‘neuropeptides’, that are responsible for maintaining your immune tolerance.

What’s more, smiling can help to reduce cortisol levels. This is known as the ‘stress’ hormone and lower levels are associated with a better heart rate, lower blood pressure and less physical tension.

3. Appearance

A smile is an easy, inexpensive way to significantly improve your looks.

In fact, studies have found that happy facial expressions can make us look up to three years younger. This is because smiling naturally lifts the face, helping to reduce frown lines and wrinkles. It can also make you appear friendlier, approachable, and more confident and attractive to others.

 

 

How can you increase your daily smiles?

We’re living through very difficult times and, understandably, you may not feel like grinning from ear to ear. But looking after our health – both emotional and physical – is more important than ever before and smiling could be exactly what you need to give yourself a little boost.

So, to start flexing those facial muscles, you could:

 

– write down things that make you happy on post-it notes and stick them around the house

– set reminders on your phone or aim to smile every time you get stuck in traffic or a queue

– watch a comedy film or funny videos online

– look at your favourite photos and create an album of good memories

– make time to connect with friends and family (even if it has to be via Zoom!)

 

The possibilities are endless. Smiling is a powerful tool and one that shouldn’t be overlooked. So do things that make you happy. Or fake it. Either way, you’re bound to see a positive effect.

 

Not a fan of your smile?

Don’t let it hold you back.

Here at Kiln Lane Dental, smiles are our forte. We have a range of treatment options available, including tooth whitening, veneers, composite bonding, Invisalign and more – all designed to transform your teeth and boost your confidence. Whatever you have in mind, our team of specialists at our St Helens dental clinic can create a bespoke plan to achieve your desired look. So, why not get in touch today?

 

Make 2021 the year that your dream smile becomes a reality and start to smile more.

To book a consultation, either give us a call on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.

 

Lots of people feel nervous about visiting the dentist.

In fact, according to the Oral Health Foundation, almost half of UK adults suffer from dentophobia (i.e. fear of the dentist) – with 12% reporting extreme symptoms of anxiety. But the good news is, there are things you can try to overcome this fear and get the treatment you require.

Here our experts offer a few top tips to help reduce your dental anxiety.

1. Get to know your dental fear

What is it, exactly, that scares you about going to the dentist?

Figuring this out is a great place to start, as you can then work towards a solution. For example, some people are afraid of the noisy drills. In which case, wearing headphones throughout the appointment can make a big difference. For others, it’s the thought of painful needles – and, therefore, asking the dentist to use a numbing gel can help to ease their concerns.

Once you understand your dental fear, it’ll be much easier to explain it to your dental practitioner.

2. Find the right dentist

Many people suffer from dentophobia due to a bad experience they’ve had in the past – such as a particularly painful or uncomfortable treatment or a dentist with an unsympathetic attitude.

If this is true for you, a good way to allay your fears is to do your research and find a dentist that you can trust. Perhaps ask friends and family for recommendations? Or look online for a clinic that specialises in dental anxiety? Once you’ve found somewhere that might be suitable, it’s also a good idea to visit the surgery – to get a feel for what it’s like – and meet some of the staff.

3. Be open from the start

Communication is the key. When you call the practice to book your first appointment, tell the receptionist about your apprehensions. The more they know, the more they can do to help. In fact, if they’re aware in advance of your dental fear (and what it is specifically that you’re afraid of), the dentist can then create a tailored plan of action to make your visit as relaxed as possible.

4. Choose an early appointment time

Your initial appointment will usually just be a routine check-up – so there’s no need to worry about any invasive treatments. In a way, it’s simply a chance for you to get to know your dentist.

But, even so, it’s best to get up and get it out of the way. The earlier the appointment, the better. That way, you have less time to dwell on it and become increasingly anxious. What’s more, before you head to the clinic, pro-active breathing techniques are a great way to help calm your nerves.

5. Take someone with you

Having a relative or friend by your side can make a huge difference. It offers an extra layer of support and assurance and – if you explain your dental anxiety – the dentist won’t mind if they accompany you throughout the appointment. So why not ask someone you trust to tag along? If nobody is free, you could even ask the receptionist or dental nurse to sit with you for the duration.

Fight your dental phobia today

Here at Kiln Lane Dental, our dentists are experienced and skilled in treating anxious patients. If you have a dental phobia, there’s no need to suffer from dental issues or avoid paying us a visit. At our St Helens dental clinic, we can offer tailored advice on how to ease your concerns and will do everything we can to make your appointment as enjoyable as possible.

If your fear of the dentist is extreme, and you’re unable to find any effective coping mechanisms, we can also refer you to a sedation clinic. Such clinics are designed for patients with severe dentophobia, offering a way to get the treatment you need, without causing too much undue stress.

So why not get in touch today? Just give us a call on 01744 25776, or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and take the first step towards overcoming your dental fear.

 

Feeling self-conscious about your bad breath? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s a very common problem, affecting around 1 in 4 people. But, fortunately, there are a few simple steps that you can take to tackle this embarrassing condition and ensure you stay minty fresh throughout the day.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath (or halitosis, to give it its medical name) is most commonly caused by poor dental hygiene. In fact, 90% of cases originate in the mouth. If you don’t look after your teeth and gums, bacteria and plaque will start to grow – and both of these are known to produce a foul odour.

In some cases, the source of the problem comes from elsewhere in the body. For example, it may be the result of a medical condition, such as tonsillitis or acid reflux. It can be due to eating strong-smelling foods or drinks or because of a new crash diet that restricts certain food groups.

Whatever the cause, it’s fairly easy to treat. There are numerous home remedies and lifestyle changes that you can try, all designed to combat odours and get rid of bad breath once and for all.

6 tips to cure bad breath

1. Visit the dentist regularly

One of the best things you can do to cure bad breath is to visit the dentist. You should aim to have a routine check-up at least once or twice a year. It’s also a good idea to see a dental hygienist every six months or so – who will ‘scale’ your teeth and remove stubborn deposits of plaque and calculus.

Here at Kiln Lane Dental, we currently offer a monthly membership plan – which includes both regular examination and hygiene appointments. This is a great option for anyone with halitosis, helping to maintain your general oral health and keep those unwanted odours at bay.

2. Brush and floss daily

This one goes without saying. To prevent a build-up of bacteria in your mouth, you should brush your teeth and gums with a fluoride toothpaste – at least twice a day, for two minutes.

Flossing is also a great habit to get into. Some people find it difficult to do, but it’s an effective way to remove food debris and plaque that you can’t reach with your toothbrush. Therefore, if you’re looking to cure bad breath, it’s worth persevering and making it a part of your daily dental routine.

3. Clean your tongue

Bacteria can also accumulate on the tongue. A normal toothbrush can be used to get rid of this. Simply start at the back and brush lightly forwards until you reach the opening of the mouth.

Alternatively, you could try using a tongue scraper. These are specifically designed to apply even pressure across the surface of the tongue and, as such, do a much more thorough job. They successfully remove dead cells, food particles and bacteria and can help to treat bad breath.

4. Mints and gum

After you’ve eaten, mints and chewing gum are a great way to freshen up your mouth. But, crucially, they must be sugar-free. If not, bacteria in the mouth will convert the sugar into acid. Not only can this acid wear down your enamel, leading to dental issues, it can actually make your halitosis worse. When you head to the shops, be sure to check the packet and choose your gum wisely.

5. Stay hydrated

Saliva has a big role to play in keeping your mouth clean. Without it, bacteria thrive. That’s why many people suffer from ‘morning breath’. Your mouth naturally dries out whilst you sleep, allowing the bacteria to multiply and creating a nasty smell. But it can occur at any time of the day.

With this in mind, one effective ‘bad breath remedy’ is to stay hydrated. You should aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. This will encourage saliva production and keep bacteria levels to a minimum. You should also avoid diuretics, such as caffeine and alcohol, as much as possible.

6. Cut out strong-smelling foods

Certain foods (such as garlic and onion) can make your bad breath worse. Many people assume that a quick brush will get rid of the smell – but this isn’t the case. Substances from the food (which make them smelly) get into your bloodstream and travel to your lungs, where you then breathe them out. As such, the only way to stop this problem is to change your diet and cut them out altogether.

Get in touch for further halitosis tips

If you would like to find out more about how to get rid of bad breath or wish to visit our dental hygienist, please feel free to get in touch. The experts at our St Helens dental clinic are always on hand and happy to help. They will offer further advice on how to tackle your halitosis and can schedule you in for an appointment. Either give us a call on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk.

Looking after your teeth isn’t difficult – and, here at Kiln Lane Dental, we believe that simple habits are the key to maintaining good oral health. After all, prevention is always better than cure.

Our team of experts are full of useful dental care tips and, here, they recommend what you should be doing on a daily, weekly and monthly basis to make the most of your smile.

A guide to looking after your teeth and mouth

1. Have regular dental check-ups

Routine examinations are crucial. In fact, to properly care for your teeth, you should aim to visit the dentist at least once or twice a year. Not only does this complement your overall oral health, but it can also help to detect dental issues in their early stages – making them much easier to treat.

As soon as you receive an appointment reminder, pick up the phone and book yourself in. That way, you’re less likely to forget. Monthly membership plans, such as those available at Kiln Lane, are also a great way to make sure you get regular check-ups. Both routine examinations and hygiene maintenance are included in the price and you’ll gain priority access to emergency appointments.

2. Brush your teeth regularly

Brushing your teeth is the best way to avoid a plaque build-up. It doesn’t matter whether you use a manual or an electric toothbrush (this is personal preference). Just be sure to brush at least twice a day, including once in the morning and once in the evening, immediately before you go to bed.

To keep your teeth healthy, you should always use a fluoride toothpaste and we recommend brushing for a minimum of two minutes. This can feel like a long time – but it’s important to be thorough and you need to make sure every surface (of every tooth) has been covered. Online tools are available to help you brush for the right amount of time.

Once the two minutes is up, spit out the excess toothpaste – but never rinse your mouth with water. This can actually wash away the fluoride and, as such, will reduce its beneficial effects.

3. Remember to floss

Flossing is an effective way to remove food debris and plaque that you can’t reach with a toothbrush. Simply break off a small piece of floss (approximately 45cm long) and use a gentle ‘rocking motion’ to guide it between the teeth. Then, once you’ve reached the gum, curve it into a c-shape and pull it gradually back – taking care to scrape along the side of the tooth as you go.

This technique can be a little tricky to master. But, to take good care of your teeth, it’s highly worthwhile and we find that most people tend to get better with practice.

4. Invest in mouthwash

When was the last time you used mouthwash? A while ago? You’re not alone. Lots of people forget to incorporate it into their daily routine – but it’s actually very good for your oral health. Not only can it help to clean your teeth, it can also reduce mouth acid and prevent tooth decay.

Be sure to choose a mouthwash with a high fluoride concentration and, to avoid washing away the fluoride in toothpaste, use it separately to brushing (e.g. after lunch).

5. Eat and drink well

Sugary foods can, over time, erode the enamel and lead to a range of dental problems (e.g. decay, cavities). There’s no need to avoid these foods entirely; but, to look after your teeth, it’s usually worth cutting back a little and being mindful of your diet. Perhaps you could swap your afternoon biscuit for an oatcake? Or ditch the chocolate bars in favour of a crunchy piece of fruit?

Drinks can be just as bad – particularly fizzy sodas, sweetened juices and squashes. Again, you should try to limit your intake of these as much as possible and opt for a glass of tap water instead.

Get in touch for further dental care tips

If you would like to find out more about how to keep your teeth healthy, or wish to book a check-up at our St Helens dental practice, feel free to get in touch. Our specialists are always happy to help. They can offer further advice and information on dental care and will schedule you in for a routine examination with our dentists. Either give us a call on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk.