Most dental problems, tooth decay and gum inflammation, can largely be prevented. Prevention rests on three things: daily care at home, diet, and regular check-ups.

What it involves

Prevention at the practice is more than a clean. It includes:

  • assessing your personal risk of decay and gum disease,
  • tailored advice on brushing and cleaning between your teeth,
  • advice on diet and habits that affect your mouth,
  • fluoride or other protective measures where appropriate,
  • regular check-ups at an interval that suits you.

Daily care at home

  • Brush twice a day, last thing at night and at one other time, for about two minutes, with a fluoride toothpaste (1,350–1,500 ppm for adults).
  • Spit, don't rinse. After brushing, spit out the toothpaste without rinsing with water, so the fluoride stays on your teeth longer.
  • Clean between your teeth once a day with interdental brushes or floss. We will show you which size suits you.
  • Clean your tongue gently, especially if it is coated.
  • Electric or manual? Both can clean well if used properly. Replace your brush or brush head about every 3 months.

Diet and habits

  • How often you have sugar matters more than how much. Limit sweets and fizzy drinks between meals.
  • Acidic drinks (fizzy drinks, juices, energy drinks) can erode enamel.
  • Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, stains teeth and slows healing.
  • If you take medicines that cause a dry mouth, let us know. Less saliva increases the risk of decay.

What usually happens at the practice

  1. Examination and risk assessment at your first visit and every check-up.
  2. Cleaning where needed.
  3. Advice tailored to you, demonstrated in your own mouth.
  4. Protective measures, such as fluoride varnish for people at higher risk, or fissure sealants on children's teeth where indicated.
  5. A recall schedule.

Frequently asked questions

Is brushing enough if I have no problems?

Brushing does not reach between the teeth, where decay and gum inflammation often start, so cleaning between your teeth is needed too. Also, many early problems have no symptoms and are only found at a check-up.

Do I need a mouthwash?

For most people it is not necessary. In some cases it is recommended for a specific reason and period. If you use one, do so at a different time from brushing, so it does not wash away the fluoride from your toothpaste.

Is fluoride safe?

At the concentrations used in toothpastes and at the dental practice, fluoride is considered safe and is one of the best-evidenced ways to prevent decay. Young children use a smaller amount of toothpaste, depending on their age.

What should I do if my gums bleed?

Do not stop brushing. Keep brushing gently and book a check-up. Bleeding is usually a sign of inflammation.

Related treatments

Appointments and questions: +30 210 6743342 · [email protected]

The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. The right treatment for you is decided after a clinical examination.

Appointments and questions: +30 210 6743342 · [email protected]