Prevention

What is Preventative Dentistry?

The two most common reasons for tooth loss is dental decay and gum disease. Preventative dentistry is the ideal way to tackle these two problems, thereby helping you keep your own teeth and meaning you need less dental treatment.

We at LeoDental are firm believers that preventative dentistry is the ideal way to keep a healthy mouth. For this reason, we work closely with selective global partners to provide you with not only the best product available, but also the best advice to help you keep your teeth for life.

Who benefits from Preventative Dentistry?

Everyone. Preventative dentistry benefits anyone who possesses their own teeth. People who don’t have any teeth also benefit, as conditions such as mouth cancer and denture stomatitis can be identified, treated and referred appropriately during regular dental visits.

Preventative Dentistry & Mouth Cancer Screening

Studies show mouth cancer is on an increasing trend and early detection dramatically improves the chances of recovery. During your dental visit, we examine any lumps or lesions you may have and identify any risk factors, so that we can treat or refer you as quickly as possible.

We at LeoDental recommend you come in for a screening on a yearly basis. However, if you have any sores, lumps or long-term ulcers in your mouth we advise you come in and have it checked as soon as possible by one of our LeoDentists.

 Preventative Dentistry & Dental Erosion

Dental erosion is the loss of the enamel surface of the tooth as a result of acid attack. This can be caused by many foods and drinks such as citrus fruits, fizzy drinks, fruit teas/juices and smoothies, which can inevitably lead to pain and sensitivity.

Acidic foods and drinks are harmful if you consume them regularly in large quantities. For this reason, we recommend having acidic foods and drinks only at meal times and drinking acidic drinks using a straw.

We recommend not brushing for at least one hour after eating or drinking anything. The enamel on your teeth softens and loses an element of its mineral content for a short period following eating or drinking. Waiting an hour allows your saliva to restore the enamel to its natural balance.

Can my Diet affect my Teeth?

Any food and drinks containing sugar can cause decay. It is not how much sugary foods and drinks we have, but how often we have them. We advise opting for sugar free drinks wherever possible and avoid anything sweet 2 hours before bedtime.

Foods such as cheese, vegetables, nuts and fruit are better for your teeth. A diet rich in minerals, fruits and vegetables can also help prevent gum disease and protect against mouth cancer.

Preventative Dentistry & Fluoride 

Fluoride helps teeth resist decay. At LeoDental, we always recommend using a toothpaste containing Fluoride.

Fluoride varnishes may often be advised for children to prevent decay developing and to help mineralise the teeth. For Adults who are at considerable risk of decay, your dentist may prescribe you a high-strength fluoride toothpaste, which you will be advised on accordingly.

Prevention & Smoking and Drinking

In short, Smoking and drinking can affect your teeth and gums.

Smoking can make gum disease worse, cause tooth loss, tooth staining and can be a cause of mouth cancer. If you do smoke, the best advice is to try and give up.

Alcoholic drinks can also cause mouth cancer. Some alcoholic drinks contain high amounts of sugar and when mixed with non-alcoholic drinks can contain acids. Subsequently, they can cause decay and erosion if consumed often and in large amounts.

If you smoke and drink, you are at a much higher risk. As a result, we strongly recommend you visit your LeoDentist more often.

LeoDental Tip

At LeoDental, we are firm believers of prevention is better than cure. For this reason, we recommend that you come in for regular hygiene appointments with our LeoHygienist and dental check-ups with your LeoDentist.