Dental hygiene

The risks

We’re not being dramatic when we say that good oral health is the foundation of good overall health. Dental hygiene plays a big part in the following conditions:

• Halitosis (or bad breath) is caused by irregular brushing and flossing, which leads to a build-up of food particles wedged between the teeth. These particles build up bacteria and emit a bad smell
• Bleeding gums can be the first sign of gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss
• Tooth loss, caused by tooth trauma and decay, not only damages your smile and your confidence, but it can also lead to jawbone deterioration and further tooth loss. In addition, tooth and jaw bone loss can give your face a sunken and dramatically aged appearance
• Respiratory issues can be aggravated by a bacteria build-up that reaches the lungs via the bloodstream
• Strokes and heart disease can also occur due to bacteria getting into the bloodstream. Studies show that tooth loss, decay and cavities were as good at indicating heart disease as cholesterol
• Erectile dysfunction can be caused by bacteria in the bloodstream inflaming blood vessels and blocking blood flow to the genitals
• Mouth cancer can go unidentified and untreated without regular check-ups

What to look for

• Bad breath
• Holes in your teeth
• Tenderness or swelling
• Pain when biting
• Teeth moving unusually 
• Clicking joints around your jaws
• Strange lumps or bumps in your mouth
• Persistent ulcers 
• Headaches

Get peace of mind

We recommend that you attend a regular check-up every three to six months. This will allow us to spot and act on any issues that arise.

A routine check-up will include:

• Understanding your general health, your lifestyle and how your teeth have been since your last visit
• Examining your mouth, paying close attention to your teeth and gums
• Carrying out oral cancer screening
• Carrying out any necessary treatment that can be done straight away, such as cleaning or taking x-rays
• Tooth cleaning
  Advising on further treatment to solve or halt any dental problems
• Providing advice on diet, lifestyle and oral hygiene to keep your mouth in great shape

You’re in safe hands

All of our dentists and hygienists are registered with the General Dental Council (GDC) and our team boasts skills in complex oral procedures, using the latest evidence-based technology, like our state-of-the-art Identafi© oral cancer screening system. It’s a ground-breaking device that detects precancerous developments before they can spread and do you harm.

Costs

We pride ourselves on offering competitive prices, without compromising on quality here at The Oxford Smile Clinics. We also offer 0% Finance options and flexible payment plans to help you spread the cost of your treatment.

Find out more

Complete care

You’re our number one priority, which is why we’d love to invite you to join our complete care plan. We’ll provide you with personalised, routine care to keep you healthy and your smile looking perfect, all for a small monthly fee.

FAQs

How long do dental check-ups usually take?

Your check-up will usually take between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on whether you need any other treatments aside from a standard examination and tooth cleaning.

What foods do I need to avoid to help my teeth stay healthy?

A balanced diet, including your full daily intake of fruit and vegetables is essential for good dental health. It is also important to limit the amount of sugar in your diet to prevent enamel erosion and tooth decay.