All You Need to Know

• How should I look after my teeth?

  Toothbrushing and flossing regularly are the best ways to keep your teeth and mouth healthy. They remove plaque and food debris between your teeth which can cause tooth decay.

  Here are some tips for keeping your teeth clean:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

  • Clean all surfaces of your teeth, which should take about 2 minutes

  • Don't rinse with water straight after toothbrushing

  • Clean in between your teeth every day using floss or interdental brushes

  • Have regular dental check-ups

  Find out how to floss your teeth

• What can I expect from a visit to the dentist?

  A dentist is the person who can help you to look after your oral hygiene (mouth health) and give you advice on things like crooked teeth. 

  If you haven't got a dentist or if you're moving away from home, you can find a dental practice that's close to you by visiting the Find Dentists services NHS online page. 

  At your first check-up, your dentist may:

  • Look at your mouth, gums and teeth
  • Ask you about your health and any problems with your teeth
  • Ask you about what you eat and whether you smoke or drink alcohol (because all of these may affect the health of your mouth, teeth and gums)
  • Ask about how you brush your teeth and advise on what you can do to keep your mouth healthy.

  Find out more about dental check-ups here

• Do I have to pay for dental care?

  Most people have to pay towards the cost of their dental care, but it's free as an NHS patient if you're:

  • Under 18 years of age
  • Under 19 and in full-time education
  • Pregnant, or if you've had a baby in the previous 12 months
  • Being treated in an NHS hospital and by a hospital dentist (though not all procedures are covered)
  • Receiving low income benefits
  • Under 20 and depend on someone on low-income benefits

• What should I know about braces?

  If your dentist recommends you wear braces to straighten your teeth because they are crooked, you may be referred to a specialist dentist called an Orthodontist. 
  
  An Orthodontist can help to straighten your teeth and/or to improve any overcrowding. You may be offered fixed braces, which can be placed on your teeth for 1 - 2 years to help straighten them. Once braces are removed you will need to wear a retainer brace at night to stop the teeth moving back into their old position.

  Find out more about braces and retainers here

• Help, I've injured my tooth. What now?

  If you take part in contact sports regularly it's wise to use a mouth guard. A mouth guard is a protective shield that fits over your teeth to reduce the risk of any injuries. Ask your dentist who will be able to find a trusted and comfortable style. 

  If you injure your tooth don't panic, but it's a good idea to get some advice from a dentist as soon as you can. If it's out of usual working hours, you can call 111 for advice. 

  If any of your teeth have come out after being injured, pop the tooth in milk inside a sealed container and take them to the dentist with you as soon as possible. Sometimes the tooth can be saved and re-attached. 

  Contact 111 online here

• I'm a bit worried about my visit, can you reassure me?

  Visiting the dentist can be worrying for some people when they don't know what to expect, but your dentist will only want what's best for your health, so it's important to go. Try to focus on the sense of relief you will feel after you've taken this step. 

  Things you can do to make you feel more empowered about your visit:

  • Get information - Before your visit you could pop in to the dentist, take a look at their website or call the surgery to ask some questions about your care. It might help to ease your nerves when you know more about what to expect. 
  • Talk to someone - It can help to talk to a trusted adult, or even an online counsellor about your worries. They might be able to give you advice, tell you about their positive experiences or help you to get some support with your anxiety. 
  • Plan a treat - Why not plan a treat, like a nice lunch, trip out with friends, or shopping trip to reward you for taking control of your teeth. Having something to look forward to can help you to feel more positive about your visit!  

  Find some reassurance with a Childline counsellor here