A New Year, A New Focus: Self-Care and Taking Charge of Your Oral Health
Hello everyone,
It’s only four days into the New Year, and I’m back into the world of dentistry and, of course, aesthetic medicine. As I reflect on what 2025 will bring, my thoughts keep circling back to one central theme: self-care.
We’ve all heard about the challenges with NHS dentistry—long waiting lists, limited availability, and mounting frustration. For many, it’s like waiting for a bus that seems like it’ll never come, and when it does, it doesn’t take you where you need to go. Why has NHS dentistry become so limited over time? Honestly, it’s a tangled web of policies, payment structures, and how the system values (or doesn’t value) the profession. I could go on, but I’ll stop there before I wade too far into controversial territory.
Here’s the reality: NHS dentistry is no longer what it used to be. It’s moving towards being a service that only provides the most basic of care. Even then, patients often struggle to access it. For example, I recently saw a patient who had been attending an NHS dentist yet had severe calculus and periodontal disease. This isn’t just an aesthetic problem; it’s a serious health issue. Left untreated, periodontal disease erodes the bone, recedes the gums, and eventually, the teeth fall out—not immediately, but inevitably over time.
What’s troubling is how preventable this is with the right care and guidance. But prevention begins at home, which brings me back to self-care.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly called gum disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues and bone that support your teeth. It starts with plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on teeth. If not removed, plaque hardens into calculus (tartar), which irritates the gums and leads to inflammation. This inflammation can progress, causing gums to pull away from the teeth and eventually destroying the supporting bone.
The result? Loose teeth, infections, and tooth loss. But here’s the silver lining: periodontal disease is largely preventable, and if caught early, it can be managed.
How Can You Help or Prevent Periodontal Disease at Home?
Self-care is the first line of defence against periodontal disease. Here’s how you can take control of your oral health:
- Interdental Cleaning
- Use interdental brushes, floss, or sticks daily to clean between your teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach.
- Brushing Technique
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, making sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline.
- Smoking Cessation
- Smoking significantly increases the risk of periodontal disease. Reducing or quitting smoking can make a huge difference.
- Control Systemic Conditions
- Manage health conditions like diabetes, which can exacerbate gum disease.
- Regular Check-Ups
- Even if you’re waiting for an NHS dentist, consider private check-ups to monitor and maintain your oral health.
- Diet and Lifestyle
- Reduce sugar intake to prevent plaque buildup, and focus on a balanced diet that supports overall health.
A Shift in Perspective: Health and Wellness
This year, my focus is on health and wellness. Self-care isn’t just about looking good—it’s about preserving what nature gave us. Your teeth, your body, your overall health—they’re all interconnected. Taking small, consistent steps at home can have a massive impact on your oral health and overall well-being.
I’ll be sharing tips, photos, and advice throughout the year on how you can practice self-care and keep your smile healthy and bright. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.
Here’s to making 2025 the year of taking charge of your health, your teeth, and your well-being.
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