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.

Are you a Juicing Fanatic? Now the festive season has started, some of my patients have told me they are trying a juicing diet to detox after Christmas party excesses, or before the inevitable over-eating starts. People are often surprised to hear the damaging effect juices can have on our teeth. A lot of juices, especially those made with fruit, are full of sugar and highly acidic. This causes a drop in pH in the mouth, which in turn can cause acid erosion which damages tooth enamel and/or decay if sustained.

Despite the possible damage, we do recognise the benefits of a good daily intake of fruits and vegetables, in particular the importance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for good gum health. Almost all vegetables are low acid, but some fruits are higher than others High Erosion Risk Fruits: Citrus Berries Peaches Pears Grapes Pineapple Moderate Erosion Risk Fruits: Figs Bananas Asian pears Dates Papaya Melons Mangoes Here are some tips to help reduce the damage that can be caused by juicing diets or high fruit intake:

1. Try to limit fruits to meal times, constant grazing causes more damage than a large amount all at once.

2. Wait at least 20 minutes after eating/drinking before brushing so you are not brushing the acid in to the teeth.

3. Drink juice through a straw and don't hold it for long in your mouth. 

4. Dilute juice with water and drink water after each juice/fruit.

5. Use a good, de sensitising toothpaste, such as Sensodyne Repair and Protect. 

6. Increase use of fluoride mouthwash such as Colgate Flourigard. GC Tooth Mousse is excellent for repairing damage when applied topically at night and left on the teeth, and also comes in some delicious fruity flavours!