Dental Health News & Tips

Stay informed about the latest developments in dental care with our comprehensive Dental Health News & Tips section. Here you'll find expert advice on maintaining optimal oral hygiene, preventing common dental problems, and understanding new treatment options. Our regularly updated content covers everything from proper brushing and flossing techniques to the latest research on gum disease prevention and tooth decay. Whether you're looking for information about cosmetic dentistry procedures, tips for managing dental anxiety, or guidance on choosing the right dental products for your family, this feed delivers trustworthy information to help you make informed decisions about your oral health. We also share seasonal dental care reminders, nutritional advice for stronger teeth, and updates on innovative dental technologies that are transforming patient care. Subscribe to stay current on important topics like cavity prevention in children, maintaining dental health during pregnancy, caring for dental implants and crowns, and recognizing early warning signs of oral health issues. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge needed to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for life.

Oral Health Foundation

Sunday July 12, 2026

Today, Karen Coates, a registered dental nurse with decades of experience, discusses how delivering better oral health helps us navigate discussions around alcohol and prevention, tools you can use to determine someone's drinking risk, and what to do if you suspect a patient turns up at the practice under the influence of alcohol. Listen here Read more about this in Delivering Better Oral Health. Get your Think about Drink score cards and alcohol awareness posters for your practice in our online shop. Leave us suggestions for topics you would like us to cover.

Monday July 20, 2026

Giving up alcohol is one great way to make sure that you stay on top of your oral health. Learn all about this in the latest episode of our podcast. Listen here Topics covered: The benefits of not drinking alcohol Acid levels in drinks Mouth cancer prevention

Thursday July 09, 2026

Many babies start sucking their thumb or fingers as early as the womb – sometimes it can even be spotted on a scan! It’s a natural reflex and a way for babies to comfort themselves. Is thumb sucking normal? Yes – it’s completely normal. Babies and toddlers often put their fingers or toys in their mouths as a way to explore the world. Most children stop sucking their thumb or fingers naturally between the ages of 2 and 4. But some might carry on when they feel: Tired. Stressed. Anxious. If the habit stops by around age 7, their teeth will usually grow into the right position on their own. However, research shows that 1-in-8 children aged 7-11 still suck their thumb or fingers. What problems can it cause? If thumb or finger sucking carries on past early childhood, it can lead to problems with the teeth and mouth. These might include: Crooked or misaligned teeth. Changes to how the top of the mouth (palate) develops. Trouble chewing or swallow...

Thursday July 09, 2026

A water pick, also called an electric flosser or water flosser, is a tool that helps clean between your teeth. It uses a thin stream of water to wash away food and plaque from areas your toothbrush cannot reach. Some people find water flossers easier to use than string floss, especially if they have braces, bridges, implants or limited hand movement. How does a water flosser work? A water pick sprays water between the teeth and along the gumline. This helps to: Loosen food particles. Wash away plaque. Clean gently under the gums. Some devices allow you to add mouthwash to the water, which may help freshen your mouth. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Benefits of a water flosser Using a water flosser can: Help remove food and plaque from between teeth. Improve gum health when used daily. Be easier to use for some people than floss or interdental brushes. Come with different tips for different needs, such as braces or sensitive gums. What e...

Thursday July 09, 2026

Your tongue can collect bacteria, food debris and dead cells. This build-up can lead to bad breath and may affect your oral health. Cleaning your tongue is a simple extra step you can add to your daily routine. Why clean your tongue? Cleaning your tongue can help to: Reduce bad breath caused by bacteria on the tongue surface. Remove the white or coated layer that can build up. Lower the amount of bacteria in your mouth that contribute to tooth decay and gum problems. Improve your sense of taste. Tongue cleaning is helpful, but it does not replace brushing your teeth and cleaning between them. What can I use? A tongue cleaner (tongue scraper) designed for this purpose. Your toothbrush. A spoon, used gently, if nothing else is available. A tongue cleaner is usually the most effective option. How to clean your tongue Stand in front of a mirror and stick out your tongue. Place the cleaner gently towards the back of your tongue (not so far that it hurts). Sl...

Friday July 10, 2026

Everyone at the Oral Health Foundation is heartbroken by the death of our former Chief Executive, Dr Nigel Carter OBE, who has died after nearly three decades leading the charity he loved.  For more than 50 years, Nigel dedicated his life to improving oral health and transforming the charity he loved. He served as a Trustee, Chair of the Board of Trustees and, for the past 29 years, as Chief Executive, leading the Oral Health Foundation through a period of extraordinary growth and influence.  Under Nigel's leadership, the Oral Health Foundation became one of the world's most respected voices for better oral health. He championed prevention long before it became central to health policy, tirelessly advocated for patients, challenged inequalities, supported the dental profession and helped millions of people improve their oral health through trusted information, education and public awareness campaigns.  Across his career he built an...

Tuesday June 30, 2026

The latest jackass film, “Jackass 5: Best and Last,” brought back some needed nostalgia and laughs to the cinema this weekend, but also featured the gang sitting new cast member Poopies down and having him injected with hyaluronic acid lip fillers without any numbing cream or anaesthetic, in an attempt to make his lips as big as possible. In the stunt sequence, someone named Dr. Julie is the one injecting the filler into the cast member’s lips. However, because lip fillers don’t have the same legal restrictions as other treatments, beauticians and non-medical professionals are legally allowed to administer them in the UK. Despite this, for your own safety, lip fillers should be carried out by a trained medical professional. This could include a: Doctor. Dentist. Nurse. Pharmacist. “Injecting lip fillers, especially in a non-sterile environment like the ones featured in the film, comes with risks to your health and shouldn’...

Tuesday June 30, 2026

The Oral-B iO series 9 has been approved by our Accreditation panel for the following: 3D teeth tracking AI brushing recognition Smart pressure sensor, gum pressure sensor Interactive display 2 minute timer Magnetic charger Long lasting battery The smart toothbrush with on-the-go convenience from Oral-B 7 brushing modes for a personalised clean #1 Recommended Toothbrush Brand by Dentists Worldwide #1 most used brand by Dentists Worldwide Our most advanced Cleaning Technology Quiet and smooth cleaning Oral-B iconic round head 100% Cleaner Teeth/ More Plaque Removal* *vs a regular manual toothbrush 100% More Plaque Removal, Even in hard-to-reach areas *vs a regular manual toothbrush Round Brush Head Cleans Better* *vs a regular manual toothbrush Cups Each Tooth For a Deeper* Yet Gentle Clean *vs a regular manual toothbrush Experience iO's Superior Clean* *vs a regular manual toothbrush Get 100% Healthier Gums in 1 Week* *vs a regular manual toothbrush 100 % Cleaner ...

Tuesday June 30, 2026

The Oral-B iO Kids (6+) toothbrush has been approved by our Accreditation panel for the following: E.A.P.D. Approved (European Association of Paediatric Dentistry) Tough on cavities, gentle on gums Powerful Cavity Protection, cleaner teeth in hard-to-reach places Designed with dentists Gentle of wobbly teeth & Gums Kid-sensitive speed reduction Celebrate when the job is done (2 min Music timer) Our best technology for kids Brush with heroes, printed design that lasts Cleaner teeth in hard to reach areas where cavities start* Designed With Dentists (EAPD approved logo) Easy and fun music timer 9/10 Kids Love Brushing with oral-b iO** Powerful cavity protection *vs regular manual toothbrush ***Results from home product usage test, n=120 kids aged 6-12 yo, October 2024.

Tuesday June 30, 2026

The Oral-B iO series 6 has been approved by our Accreditation panel for the following: 3D teeth tracking AI brushing recognition Smart pressure sensor, gum pressure sensor Interactive display 2 minute timer Magnetic charger Long lasting battery The smart toothbrush with on-the-go convenience from Oral-B 7 brushing modes for a personalised clean #1 Recommended Toothbrush Brand by Dentists Worldwide #1 most used brand by Dentists Worldwide Our most advanced Cleaning Technology Quiet and smooth cleaning Oral-B iconic round head 100% Cleaner Teeth/ More Plaque Removal* *vs a regular manual toothbrush 100% More Plaque Removal, Even in hard-to-reach areas *vs a regular manual toothbrush Round Brush Head Cleans Better* *vs a regular manual toothbrush Cups Each Tooth For a Deeper* Yet Gentle Clean *vs a regular manual toothbrush Experience iO's Superior Clean* *vs a regular manual toothbrush Get 100% Healthier Gums in 1 Week* *vs a regular manual toothbrush 100 % Cleaner ...

Tuesday June 30, 2026

The Oral-B iO series 3 has been approved by our Accreditation panel for the following: 3D teeth tracking AI brushing recognition Smart pressure sensor, gum pressure sensor Interactive display 2 minute timer Magnetic charger Long lasting battery The smart toothbrush with on-the-go convenience from Oral-B 7 brushing modes for a personalised clean #1 Recommended Toothbrush Brand by Dentists Worldwide #1 most used brand by Dentists Worldwide Our most advanced Cleaning Technology Quiet and smooth cleaning Oral-B iconic round head 100% Cleaner Teeth/ More Plaque Removal* *vs a regular manual toothbrush 100% More Plaque Removal, Even in hard-to-reach areas *vs a regular manual toothbrush Round Brush Head Cleans Better* *vs a regular manual toothbrush Cups Each Tooth For a Deeper* Yet Gentle Clean *vs a regular manual toothbrush Experience iO's Superior Clean* *vs a regular manual toothbrush Get 100% Healthier Gums in 1 Week* *vs a regular manual toothbrush 100 % Cleaner ...

Tuesday July 07, 2026

Millions of people may be missing an important step in keeping their teeth and gums healthy, according to leading UK dental experts. Advice from some of the UK’s biggest oral health organisations says brushing twice a day may not always be enough to help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. The guidance, backed by the Oral Health Foundation and created following an advisory board meeting by Kenvue with representatives from the British Society of Periodontology, the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy and the British Association of Dental Therapists, says adding the right mouthwash to a daily brushing routine can help improve gum health and reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. Experts behind the advice say many people struggle to remove enough plaque through brushing alone, particularly around the gum line and between teeth, even when brushing regularly. Dr Rachel England, Head of Policy and Advocacy at the Oral Health Foundation, says: “Most people understand...

Wednesday June 24, 2026

Millions of people in the UK could be brushing their teeth ineffectively – and not even realise it, according to the Oral Health Foundation. Despite daily brushing routines, the charity is concerned that a growing number of adults are unknowingly putting themselves at risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to poor technique and lack of feedback. The charity is warning that “brushing blind” – brushing without knowing whether you’re doing it correctly – is one of the most overlooked issues in personal health. “Most people believe they’re brushing their teeth well, but the evidence tells a very different story,” says Karen Coates, oral health educator at the Oral Health Foundation. “Every day, we see patients with early gum disease, plaque build-up or sensitivity that could be prevented with better brushing technique. But without feedback, it’s impossible to know if you’re applying too much pressure, missi...

Tuesday July 07, 2026

Dental leaders, educators and future members of the profession have called for a stronger focus on evidence-based prevention, clearer patient communication and greater collaboration across the oral healthcare workforce during a special panel event marking 50 years of Smile Month. Hosted by the Oral Health Foundation, the discussion brought together voices from across dentistry to reflect on the progress made in oral health over the past five decades - and the challenges still facing the profession. A recurring theme throughout the panel was the need to move prevention from the margins of dentistry to the centre of patient care. Speakers highlighted the importance of giving both patients and dental professionals clearer, more consistent guidance on evidence-based prevention and daily oral health routines. Supporting this ambition, the Oral Health Foundation is partnering with Kenvue on behalf of Listerine to help turn the latest clinical consensus on dental plaque biofilm management...

Friday July 10, 2026

The Oral Health Foundation has welcomed the Government's acknowledgement of concerns about access to dental care for people born with a cleft but says further work is needed to understand why many patients continue to experience difficulties accessing routine NHS dental services. The response follows a petition led by CLAPA (Cleft Lip and Palate Action), which called for improved access to NHS dentistry for people born with a cleft. Rachael England, Head of Policy and Advocacy at the Oral Health Foundation, said: "We welcome the Government's acknowledgement of the concerns raised by CLAPA and its commitment to improving access to NHS dentistry. However, the response largely describes how dental services for people born with a cleft are intended to operate, rather than addressing the experiences reported by many patients and families. "The important question is not whether pathways exist on paper, but whether they are working in practice. The evidence gathered by CLAPA suggests that ...

Wednesday July 15, 2026

Author: Oral Health Foundation and Listerine | Location: Global This patient guide explains how to build an effective daily oral care routine, including when and how to use mouthrinse alongside toothbrushing. Based on a expert consensus from leading UK dental organisations, it helps patients understand the role of mouthrinse in preventing plaque build-up, gum disease and tooth decay. This leaflet: Explains the recommended order for brushing, spitting (not rinsing), and using mouthrinse. Encourages patients to choose products and routines suited to their individual oral health needs with advice from their dental team. Highlights the benefits of antimicrobial and fluoride mouthrinses, including when each should be used. Reinforces evidence-based prevention messages on toothbrushing, fluoride use and plaque biofilm management. Promotes consistent daily oral hygiene to reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. For: Patients and members of the public looking to improve ...

Tuesday July 07, 2026

When it comes to oral health, timing is everything. Tooth decay does not happen overnight. It develops gradually and, in its early stages, is often painless and difficult to notice. But spotting decay early and taking action quickly can make a huge difference to your long-term oral health. During Smile Month, we’re partnering with VVARDIS to help raise awareness about the importance of early intervention in oral health and why treating tooth decay early can help protect your natural teeth for longer. What is tooth decay? Tooth decay begins when you eat or drink foods that contain sugar. The bacteria in plaque react with this sugar and produce plaque acids, and these plaque acids make holes in your teeth. In the early stages, tooth decay may not cause any pain or obvious symptoms. Many people do not realise there is a problem until the decay reaches deeper layers of the tooth where the nerves are located, causing pain. That is why regular dental check-ups are so important. W...

Friday June 19, 2026

The Oral Health Foundation has voiced concern over new findings showing that many people born with a cleft face significant barriers to accessing dental care. New research from the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA) found that people with a cleft are twice as likely to experience difficulties accessing dental treatment. More than two-in-five (42%) report receiving inadequate care because of a lack of professional training and understanding, while nearly two-in-five (38%) say they cannot afford treatment for cleft-related dental issues. Alarmingly, around one-in-fourteen (7%) have been refused treatment altogether because of their cleft. The charity believes the findings highlight unacceptable inequalities in access to oral healthcare and demonstrate the need for urgent improvements in training, access and coordination of care. Dr Rachael England, Head of Policy and Advocacy at the Oral Health Foundation, says: "These findings are deeply concerning and highlight inequalities t...

Wednesday June 10, 2026

Brits know the importance of looking after their teeth, but many are struggling to turn good intentions into healthy habits, according to new research from the Oral Health Foundation and mydentist. The nationwide study, carried out as part of Smile Month, suggests that busy lives, competing priorities and uncertainty about symptoms are leading many people to put off simple steps that could protect their oral health. Almost four in ten people (39%) admit they have fallen asleep without brushing their teeth during the past year, while nearly a third (32%) say they have deliberately skipped brushing before bed. Almost one-in-four (24%) have ignored tooth pain, hoping it would simply go away. Ben Atkins, dentist and trustee at the Oral Health Foundation, says: "These findings don't suggest people don't care about their oral health. In fact, quite the opposite. Most people understand the importance of looking after their mouth, but life can get busy and it's easy to put things off when...

Sunday July 12, 2026

Water fluoridation has been one of the most widely discussed public health measures in dentistry for decades. In this episode, we explore its history in the UK with leading expert Dr Barry Cockcroft, examining how fluoridation became part of oral health policy and why it continues to generate debate. The conversation explains the scientific evidence behind community water fluoridation, its role in preventing tooth decay, and its impact on improving oral health across populations. We also discuss how public attitudes have changed over time and why fluoridation remains an important topic in preventive dentistry. Whether you're interested in public health, dental history or evidence-based prevention, this episode provides valuable insight into one of the most significant developments in modern oral healthcare. Listen here Topics covered: The history of water fluoridation Preventing tooth decay Public health dentistry Evidence behind fluoridation Oral health policy

Sunday July 12, 2026

Dental technology is transforming the way oral healthcare is delivered. In this episode, we examine some of the innovations reshaping modern dentistry and what they mean for patients and dental professionals alike. From digital scanning and improved diagnostics to advances in treatment planning and patient care, we discuss how technology is making dentistry more accurate, efficient and comfortable. The conversation also explores how emerging innovations may continue to improve prevention, communication and long-term oral health outcomes. As digital tools become increasingly common within dental practices, understanding their benefits helps patients feel more informed and confident about the care they receive. This episode provides an accessible overview of the technologies influencing the future of dentistry and highlights why innovation continues to improve oral healthcare. Listen here Topics covered: Digital dentistry Diagnostic technology Future innovations Patient care...

Friday June 05, 2026

A panel of leading dental experts has agreed an evidence-based consensus statement on the role of mouthwash as part of maintaining good oral health between dental appointments. The consensus was developed during a Johnson & Johnson National Advisory Panel meeting, which brought together experts from across dentistry and oral health to discuss how dental professionals can best support patients in maintaining their oral health between appointments. Discussions focused on the importance of effective mechanical plaque control, the limitations some patients face in achieving this, and the potential role of clinically proven chemotherapeutic mouthwashes as an adjunct to daily oral hygiene. The meeting also explored the wider challenge of supporting patients to maintain good oral health outside of the dental surgery through simple, practical and evidence-based advice. The group concluded: "Healthy gums don't bleed. Effective toothbrushing and interdental cleaning is essential for k...

Sunday July 12, 2026

Mouthguards are now recognised as an essential piece of protective equipment in many sports, but their journey to becoming a standard safety device has been far from straightforward. In this episode, we explore how mouthguards were first developed, the challenges they faced in gaining widespread acceptance, and how advances in materials and design have dramatically improved comfort and protection for athletes of all ages. The discussion highlights the important role mouthguards play in preventing dental injuries, reducing the risk of damaged teeth and supporting safer participation in contact sports. We also look ahead to future innovations that could make mouthguards even more effective and personalised. Whether you're a parent, coach, athlete or dental professional, this episode explains why protecting your teeth during sport should never be overlooked. Listen here Topics covered: The origins of mouthguards Preventing dental injuries Advances in mouthguard techn...

Sunday July 12, 2026

A smile is one of the most recognisable forms of human expression, but its meaning has evolved throughout history. In this episode, we explore how smiling has been viewed across different cultures and time periods, and why attitudes towards showing our teeth have changed. The discussion examines the social, cultural and psychological significance of smiling, alongside the growing importance placed on oral health and confidence. As dentistry has advanced and people have become more aware of preventive care, healthy smiles have increasingly become associated with wellbeing, communication and self-esteem. We also consider how modern society, media and technology have influenced perceptions of smiles, and why maintaining healthy teeth is about much more than appearance alone. This episode combines history, science and oral health to explain why smiles continue to play such an important role in everyday life. Listen here Topics covered: The history of smiling Cultural attit...

Sunday July 12, 2026

Toothpaste has changed dramatically throughout history. From early mixtures made with natural ingredients such as soot, salt and herbs to today's fluoride toothpastes, people have continually searched for better ways to protect their teeth. In this episode, we explore how toothpaste developed across different civilisations and examine the scientific discoveries that transformed it into an essential part of modern oral healthcare. We discuss the introduction of fluoride, changing attitudes towards prevention, and how toothpaste now helps protect against tooth decay, gum disease and sensitivity. The conversation also considers how consumer expectations have influenced toothpaste development, with products now designed to meet a wide range of oral health needs while making brushing more effective and enjoyable. This episode provides an accessible overview of one of the most familiar products in the bathroom cabinet and explains why toothpaste remains a key part of maintaining oral heal...

Friday May 15, 2026

For 50 years, Smile Month has helped shape the way people think about oral health. What began as Smile ’77 has grown into one of the UK’s most recognised oral health campaigns, supporting millions of people to understand the importance of healthier habits, prevention and regular dental care. This landmark report reflects on five decades of progress in oral health and looks ahead to the future of dentistry, prevention and public health in the UK. About the report Oral Health: From Treatment to Prevention explores how oral health has changed since the 1970s, from a system largely focused on pain, repair and treatment, towards one increasingly shaped by prevention, public health policy and a stronger understanding of the links between oral and general health. The report highlights major improvements in oral health over the last half-century, including the impact of fluoride toothpaste, public education, clinical advances and population-level prevention. But it also shows ...

Sunday July 12, 2026

The toothbrush is one of the most important tools for maintaining good oral health, but it has a surprisingly long and fascinating history. In this episode of The Oral Health Podcast, we trace the evolution of toothbrushes from ancient chew sticks and natural fibres to the sophisticated electric toothbrushes used today. We explore how different cultures developed their own methods of cleaning teeth, why oral hygiene has always been an important part of health, and how advances in science and technology have transformed the way we care for our mouths. The discussion also looks at the features of modern toothbrushes, including improvements in design, bristle technology and electric brushing, as well as what future innovations could mean for everyday oral care. Whether you're interested in the history of dentistry or simply want to understand why brushing remains the foundation of good oral health, this episode offers an engaging look at how one everyday item has changed over thousands...

Friday May 29, 2026

The Oral Health Foundation is inviting people across the UK to share their smile and become part of a nationwide “Wall of Smiles” as Smile Month officially launches its 50th campaign today. The special anniversary initiative aims to celebrate the people, communities, and organisations that help improve oral health every day, while encouraging supporters to spread positive oral health messages through their own networks and communities. First launched in 1977, Smile Month has become the UK’s largest and longest-running oral health awareness campaign, spending five decades championing better oral health through education, prevention, and awareness. Over the years, the campaign has reached millions of people with practical advice and positive oral health messages designed to support healthier lives and improve wellbeing. Today, Smile Month continues to bring together dental professionals, schools, workplaces, charities, health organisations, and community groups behi...

Friday June 12, 2026

The Oral Health Foundation is proud to support the launch of Fuel for Learning - a new, parent-led toolkit designed to help families better understand and influence what their children eat at school. Developed by the Children’s Food Campaign, part of Sustain, this practical guide has been co-designed with parents to make school food systems clearer, more transparent, and easier to navigate. Why it matters Food plays a vital role in children’s health, wellbeing, and ability to learn - including their oral health. Yet for many parents, the way school meals are planned and delivered can feel complex or difficult to influence. “What children eat at school doesn’t just affect their energy and concentration - it has a direct impact on their oral health and long-term wellbeing. Giving parents the tools to understand and influence school food is a vital step towards creating healthier environments for children to thrive.” Karen Coates, Oral Health Educator ...

Thursday July 09, 2026

Most people know smoking is harmful to the mouth. It can stain teeth, cause gum disease, lead to tooth loss and is a major cause of mouth cancer. Vaping is often promoted as a safer alternative to smoking. While it is likely to be less harmful than smoking tobacco, it is not risk-free – especially for the mouth. What is vaping meant for? E-cigarettes were developed to help people who smoke to cut down and ideally stop smoking completely. Research shows vaping is less harmful than smoking, but the long-term effects are still not fully known. Key message: If you do not smoke, do not start vaping. If you smoke, vaping may help you quit – but the goal should be to stop using nicotine altogether. How vaping affects your mouth Vaping exposes the mouth to nicotine and hot vapour. This can affect teeth, gums and saliva. Gum disease Vaping may increase the risk of gum disease. Nicotine can: Reduce blood flow to the gums. Slow healing. Hide early warning signs...

Thursday April 16, 2026

More people are now using electric toothbrushes instead of manual ones. There are many types available, from basic models to more expensive ones. The best toothbrush is one that suits both your mouth and your budget. This guide will help you choose. What to look for in an electric toothbrush Types of electric toothbrushes There are two main types: Oscillating-rotating toothbrushes. These have a small round head that spins back and forth. They usually make between 1,300 and 8,800 brush movements per minute. Sonic toothbrushes. These use fast vibrations to clean teeth. They can feel different at first. They usually make between 24,000 and 30,000 brush movements per minute. Both types can clean teeth well when used properly. Brushing modes Some electric toothbrushes have different settings, such as: Polish. Whitening. Daily clean. Sensitive. Gum care. These are optional. A basic daily clean mode is enough for most people. Pressure sensor Some brushes have a...

Thursday April 16, 2026

ADHD affects attention, activity levels and impulse control. It can make everyday tasks more difficult, including going to the dentist. How ADHD can affect dental care People with ADHD may experience: Oral hygiene challenges: Finding it hard to keep a regular brushing and flossing routine. This can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum problems. Habits: Tooth grinding (bruxism) and nail biting can wear down and damage teeth. Dental anxiety: Dental visits can feel overwhelming and cause fear or stress. Missed appointments: Difficulties with organisation and time management can make it easier to forget appointments. This may result in missed-appointment charges. ADHD can also make it harder to sit still, stay focused and manage impulsive behaviour during treatment. Preparing in advance can help you feel more in control. Read more about how ADHD can impact dental care day-to-day here. Before your appointment Set reminders Put the appointment in your...

Tuesday April 21, 2026

If you break a tooth or lose a filling, the tooth may feel sensitive or painful, especially to hot and cold foods and drinks. You will need to see a dentist to have it repaired. Sometimes your dentist may place a temporary filling. This protects the tooth and reduces sensitivity until a permanent filling can be done. If you cannot see a dentist straight away, temporary filling kits are available from pharmacies. These are only a short-term measure until you can get dental treatment. Why are temporary fillings used? Temporary fillings are used to: Protect the inside of the tooth. Reduce pain or sensitivity. Seal the tooth until permanent treatment is carried out. Temporary filling kits Pharmacy kits usually contain dental cement and simple tools to place it. Follow the instructions carefully. Only use them as a short-term fix. See a dentist as soon as possible. These kits do not replace proper dental care. Temporary vs permanent fillings Temporary fillings a...

Thursday April 16, 2026

Teeth do not all appear at once. They come through the gums in stages. These times are a guide – every child is different, and small differences are normal. Baby (milk) teeth Baby teeth usually start to come through at about 6 months of age. Most children have all their baby teeth by around 2½ years. There are 20 baby teeth in total. Typical order of baby teeth: Central incisors (front teeth) – around 6 months. Lateral incisors – around 8 months. First molars – around 12 months. Canines (pointed teeth) – around 18 months. Second molars – around 24 months. Lower teeth often come through before the matching upper teeth. Permanent (adult) teeth Adult teeth usually start to appear around age 6. The first permanent teeth to come through are the first molars at the very back. These appear behind the baby teeth and do not replace any teeth. They are very important and need careful cleaning. There are 32 adult teeth, including ...

Thursday April 16, 2026

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