7 WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR SMILE
EXPERTS REVEAL THEIR TOP TIPS
We all know that daily brushing, flossing and regular check-ups with your dentist are the best ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy, but there are some additional measures you can take to maximise your oral health. Here, dentists and health experts share their top tips for natural ways to keep your pearly whites healthy.
STAY HYDRATED Dehydration can be detrimental to the health of your teeth and gums, says Dr Franck Page from Coastal Dental Care. ‘When the mouth becomes dry, saliva is unable to clear food and harmful plaque from teeth and gums. Over time, this increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease,’ he explains.
AVOID LEMON WATER Having a glass of hot water with lemon juice first thing in the morning is often recommended by naturopaths to help alkalise the body, but these drinks can cause dental erosion and sensitivity, says Dr Frank Farrelly from Darlinghurst Dental. ‘Unfortunately, I see a lot of patients who get dental erosion due to those kinds of drinks. It is always a pity when we do something to promote our health, but the side-effect is damaging,’ he says. ‘Apple cider vinegar is also commonly taken similarly and can cause severe dental erosion.
‘Drinking through a straw may help to bypass the teeth, but it’s best to avoid the drink altogether, especially for those who get dental erosion or sensitivity. Having water after acids is beneficial, but I’d look at alternative options instead.’ WAIT BEFORE BRUSHING The recommended minimum wait after consuming acidic foods or drinks is 30 to 60 minutes, says Dr Farrelly. ‘It’s fine to brush before, or a little later,’ he explains. ‘Erosion can occur from non-dietary acids, such as acid reflux or vomiting, including from morning sickness. In this case, it is fine to rinse with a mouthwash to freshen your breath, but it’s still advisable to wait before brushing.
‘Generally having water, cheese, rinsing and waiting are all beneficial to reduce the acidity after acidic foods.’
SIP A GREEN TEA There is some limited evidence that green teas, rich in
antioxidants, are beneficial for gums, says Dr Farrelly. ‘It is not known for sure, but it is thought the polyphenols called catechins, which are in green tea, alter the immune system response to plaque and tartar,’ he says.
‘This immune response is what causes gum disease, so this interruption appears to be beneficial. The benefit appears to be small, however, so regular visits and daily brushing and flossing remains the best approach to preventing gum disease.’
CONSIDER COENZYME Q10 With dental health I always recommend coenzyme Q10, says GO Healthy naturopath Peta Teuma. ‘Coenzyme Q10 naturally declines as we age, and with every cell needing it, we may see the signs through declining energy and poor oral health,’ she explains. ‘Periodontal disease and gingivitis is caused by bacteria which create inflammation and damage to the gums. The bacteria destroy the tissue and create free radical damage. Coenzyme Q10, being a powerful antioxidant, helps clear the free radical damage and may help treat periodontal disease.’