Tooth decay is entirely preventble, yet new reserach shows that more than 19 million
Awareness on how to prevent tooth decay is as low as 27% , according to the findings of the
Some of the
AROUND 20 MILLION
More than one-in-three (36%) British adults have had toothache during the pandemic - one of the leading signs of tooth decay.
Tooth decay often leads to a filling, and if not caught early, can result in root canal treatment or a tooth extraction.
As part of the health campaign, The Truth About Tooth Decay, experts at the
The good news is that preventing tooth decay can be both easy and affordable. Here are four of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay.
Caring for your teeth
Brushing your teeth thoroughly last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, with a 1450ppm fluoride toothpaste is the most effective way to prevent tooth decay.
Despite this, nearly one-in-five (19%) British adults do not brush their teeth at least twice a day. And according to new research by the charity, around one-in-seven (14%) do not believe brushing lowers the risk of tooth decay.
Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, Dr
"Brushing twice a day, including last thing at night is the best way to keep teeth healthy. Make sure that you brush the inner, outer and biting surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. This should take around two minutes.
"It is also really useful to use 'interdental' brushes, or dental floss or tape, which helps to remove plaque from between your teeth and where they meet the gums. These are areas an ordinary toothbrush can't reach."
Cut down on how much and how often you have sugary foods and drinks
Sugar is a direct cause of tooth decay and during the pandemic, consumption has risen. One-in-five (20%) admit their diets have become unhealthier during lockdown.
To reduce your risk of tooth decay, have sugary foods and drinks less often. Also try to avoid having unhealthy snacks between meals, to limit the number of times your teeth are under acid attack.
Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal can help your mouth produce more saliva, which helps to cancel out any acids that have formed.
Visiting your dental team
Visiting your dental team regularly, as often as they recommend, can help you manage your oral health, including how to prevent tooth decay.
"They can also help you with advice and information to help you care for your mouth at home. They can show you correct cleaning techniques, advise you on what products to use, and give guidance about how your diet and lifestyle may be affecting your oral health."
According to new data collected by the charity, more than one-in-five (21%) of
Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that can be naturally found in many foods and in all drinking water. The amount of fluoride in water varies from area-to-area.
Fluoride is also the most important ingredient in toothpaste, helping to protect against tooth decay. Despite this, awareness of the benefits of fluoride remains low.
As few as one-in-four (27%) are aware that fluoride can prevent tooth decay, according to the charity's research.
"Sometimes, your dental team might choose to give you a prescription for a toothpaste that contains higher levels of fluoride. They may do this if you have any of the signs associated with tooth decay or are at increased risk of tooth decay."
To help more people identify the signs of tooth decay and prevent the disease, the charity has partnered with
Other symptoms of tooth decay include tooth sensitivity to sweet things, an unpleasant taste in the mouth or dark spot on the surface of the tooth.
If you notice any of the early signs of tooth decay, contact your dentist. The sooner tooth decay is treated, the easier and more effective the treatment will be.
For anybody looking for help or support with their oral health, the charity also has a Dental Helpline which offers free advice. You can call the Dental Helpline on 01788 539780 or email helpline@dentalhealth.org
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