Oral health education

Oral health education

02/09/2016

Oral health education is a vital part of keeping your mouth healthy. At The Dental Surgery Burnham, we offer the services of oral health educators, who can deliver bespoke care advice to patients of all ages, tailored to suit their individual needs

Everybody knows that regular visits to the dentist and hygienist are important to keeping teeth and gums in tip-top condition. However, where many people come unstuck is by having an inadequate home care routine. Our oral health educators provide individual advice designed to fit around your requirements and lifestyle, so that you can help us to keep your teeth and gums in the best condition possible.

From children to pensioners, patients of all ages will benefit from personal, customised advice. All information will be presented in an engaging and easy-to-understand, age-appropriate manner, and you will always be encouraged to ask questions if anything you want to know hasn’t been covered or your find some information unclear.

Every patient’s oral health needs will be different, but the advice your oral health educator may give you can include:

Tooth brushing

What is the best type of tooth brush to use for your individual needs? How long do you need to brush your teeth for, and what is the best technique? For children, we can suggest ways to make daily tooth brushing a fun activity that they are keen to partake in.

We will also look at the best type of toothpaste to suit your personal needs.

Flossing, interdental brushes and mouthwashes

Your oral health educator can advise on flossing techniques and using special devices such as interdental brushes to clean between your teeth, explaining why this is important. They can also recommend the best type of mouthwash to use, particularly if you have special requirements such as care after oral surgery.

Caring for braces, bridges and implants

If you have braces, bridges, dentures, dental implants or other restorations, these will require special care. Your oral health educator will teach you how to clean these effectively.

Diet

Your oral health educator will also explain the importance of a healthy diet, and what too much sugary or acidic food or drink can do to your teeth. This can be very beneficial for children, helping them to understand how best to take care of their teeth for life.