It is difficult to estimate how much sugar an individual consumes over the Christmas holiday, as it can vary greatly depending on a number of factors such as age, gender, diet, and activity level. However, it is generally accepted that the average person consumes more sugar during the holiday season than at other times of the year due to an increase in the consumption of sweet treats and beverages. After all, it is Christmas!
 

There are just 8 sleeps till Christmas; the big day is getting closer and closer. Here are 8 tips to look after your teeth over the festive period:
 

1. Brush your teeth twice a day using an electric tooth brush with a 2 minute timer
2. Floss or use inter dental brushes in between your teeth- this is vital
3. Use a flouride mouthwash afterwards-do not rinse with water
4. Limit sugary foods and drinks (sorry!) to mealtimes and reduce the frequency of acid attack on your teeth
5. Limit acidic foods and drinks as much as possible; did you know that hot lemon water has the same acidity as battery acid!
6. Drink alcohol in moderation (sorry again!)
7. For sensitivity, rub some sensitive toothpaste directly on to the tooth and leave overnight. Repeat for at least 7 days.
8. Visit your dentist and hygienist when due- early intervention means less extensive treatment in the long term

If you need to be seen prior to Christmas, please contact us on Monday morning. We will squeeze you in!

In a recent study by UCL, shocking statistics were found on the levels of tooth decay and gum disease on footballers. The article was in The Telegraph. We have certainly seen decay present within the sports industry due to the diet that is often required for energy levels. For instance, energy sports drinks are FULL of sugar. These drinks are often sipped throughout training sessions and therefore there is a high frequency of acid attack on the teeth. We would like to suggest many other ways of maintaining energy levels in a natural way. For example, a banana can provide huge amounts of natural energy. The natural sugars present are far better than added sugar within products. 

If there are any football clubs that would like to screen their players, feel free to give us a call. We have the highest levels of technology to detect the earliest of tooth decay or gum disease - early intervention and prevention is always best!

It is that time of year again- back to school. The summer holidays are over and the new school year begins. Oh well, never mind, it will be half term soon! Here are some useful tips on maintaining your child's oral health for the new school year:

1. Avoid sugary drinks. Fizzy drinks are especially bad. Did you know that a can of cola contains 4 tablespoons of sugar. Yes, that is correct- tablespoons not teaspoons.
2. Avoid snacking on processed snacks such as the weird and wonderful shaped crisps. These can be very sticky and difficult to remove. They also contain starch. A recipe for tooth decay.
3. Brush twice a day for 2 minutes. A timer is useful.
4. Use a fluoride mouthwash after brushing especially at night time. There are many children's versions available. They key is not to swallow- gargle for 30 second and spit. Do not rinse with water afterwards.
5. Use plaque disclosing tablets. These are ideal at night to avoid a pink mouth at school!
6. Visit the dentist and hygienist twice a year. 

At Progressive Dentistry, we offer FREE children's examinations with a registered parent. Developing good dental habits at a young age is vital- prevention is better than cure.