Caring for your teeth and gums isn't just the responsibility of your dentist and the practice team. There are many activities you can do everyday to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, apart from brushing, such as flossing, mouth rinses and careful selection of your diet.

Diet
The most common cause of tooth decay is refined sugars, which by encouraging plaque build up can also lead to gum disease. Examples of refined sugars include Sucrose, Glucose, Dextrose, Corn Syrup and Glucose Syrup. Even natural sugars, such as those found in fruit and honey, can cause plaque acids. Examples of natural sugars include Fructose, Lactose and Maltose. Acid in plaque builds up only seconds after eating sugars but may take over 30 minutes to return to safe levels. It's not only the quantity of sugar that can cause damage but the frequency as well, so if you must eat sweets, avoid spreading them out over a long period of time.

What are teeth made of?
The outside of each tooth is made of strong enamel to protect it. Inside it is made of softer dentine with a nerve and bloodvessels in the middle.

Brushing, mouth rinses and flossing
Dentists recommend you brush your teeth at least twice a day. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to tell you which type of toothbrush is best for you and how best to use it. They can also talk to you about mouth rinses, flossing and other interdental aids which may help in your personal preventive programme.