We get it. Life is busy. But your dental check-up is much more than a quick peek at your teeth. At Ringmer Dental, we like to think of it as a friendly MOT for your mouth — helping to spot small issues before they become big, painful, or expensive ones.

Here are five very good reasons to keep that appointment in your diary.

1. We can spot tooth decay before it causes drama.

Tooth decay can be sneaky. It doesn’t always shout for attention straight away, which is why regular checks are so useful. Yourdentist will assess your risk of cavities and offer practical advice to help keep decay at bay. Sometimes, x-rays may be recommended so we can see what’s happening in hard-to-spot places, such as between teeth, under crownsorfillings, or around tooth roots. Ascale and polishcan also help remove plaque and calculus build-up — the kind of cosy hiding place that decay-causing bacteria love.

2. Your mouth cancer check is quick, important, and potentially lifesaving.

A routine appointment also includes checks of the tissues inside and outside your mouth. Your dentist will look for anything unusual or concerning and, if needed, refer you to a specialist. Mouth cancer diagnoses have been rising in the UK, and early detection can make a real difference — so this small part of your appointment really matters.

3. We keep an eye on your gums.

Healthy gums are the unsung heroes of a healthy smile. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the UK, but the good news is that catching it early gives us the best chance of managing it effectively. With improved oral hygiene, helpful advice, and regular hygienist appointments where needed, your gums can get the support they deserve.

4. Your jaw, bite, and restorations get a proper once-over

Clicking, popping, discomfort, or locking in the jaw? Don’t just put up with it. Your dentist can assess your jaw and bite and may suggest options such as mouth guards to help reducediscomfort or refer you for specialist care if needed. They’ll also check any existing dental restorations and talk you through suitable options if anything needs repairing, replacing, or restoring.

5. You leave with personalised tips for a healthier smile

No two mouths are the same, so your oral hygiene routine shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all either. Your dentist or hygienist can help remove plaque and calculus build-up, then give you tailored advice on brushing, cleaning between teeth, diet, smoking, and other lifestyle factors that can affect your oral health. Think of it as a mini coaching session for your smile.

Ready to give your smile a little TLC? If you’re due for your routine dental appointment, don’t let that reminder gather dust. Call Ringmer Dental on 01273 813898 and book your consultation today.

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I started working as a dental nurse over 28 years ago and qualified in 2000. I can’t believe how quickly the time has flown!

I’m really enjoying being part of the team here at Ringmer Dental and helping to make every patient’s journey through the practice a positive and enjoyable experience.

When I’m not dental nursing, you’ll find me spending time with my family and friends, as well as doing lots of walking. My love of walking may also explain my rather ridiculous collection of trainers – I have them in every colour of the rainbow!

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1. Book Their First Dental Visit Early

Your child’s first dental appointmentshould usually happen by the time they are 12 months old, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. It may sound early, but it is a brilliant way to help them feel comfortable in the dental chair from the very beginning. Think of it as a friendly introduction rather than a big event. The earlier they get used to visiting the dentist, the easier future appointments can feel.

2. Know What Causes Tooth Decay

Tooth decay might be small, but it can cause big problems if left unchecked. It happens when bacteria, food, acid and saliva mix to form plaque, a sticky coating that clings to teeth. Over time, the acid in plaque can wear away the enamel and lead to cavities. Regular brushing, healthy snack choices and routine dental visits all help keep plaque under control.

3. Keep an Eye on Thumb and Dummy Sucking

Thumb sucking and dummy sucking are completely normal for babies and young children. They can offer comfort, help little ones settle and make bedtime a bit smoother. However, if the habit continues for a long time, or is particularly frequent or intense, it may affect how the teeth and jaws develop. Most children naturally stop between the ages of two and four, but if you are concerned, your dentist can offer gentle advice.

4. Make Brushing a Brilliant Daily Habit

Start brushing as soon as that first little tooth appears. At first, you can use a baby toothbrush with water. Once your child is around two years old and understands how to spit rather than swallow, you can introduce a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

As your child becomes more independent, help them learn a simple brushing routine. Try these easy steps:

• Hold the toothbrush against the gum line at a 45-degree angle.
• Move the toothbrush gently back and forth using small strokes.
• Brush the outer, chewing and inner surfaces of each tooth.
• Give every tooth a little attention during each brushing session.
• Finish by gently brushing the tongue from back to front.

Want to make brushing more exciting? Let your child choose a bright toothbrush, pick one with their favourite character on it, or play a two-minute song while they brush. A little fun can go a long way.

5. Yes, Kids Can Floss Too

Once your child’s teeth begin to touch, brushing alone may not remove all the plaque hiding between them. That is where flossing, or interdental cleaning aids, can help. It is a small step that can make a big difference in preventing cavities between teeth.

Flossing can be fiddly at first, so your child may need your help for a while. Keep it calm, positive and part of the daily routine. With practice, it becomes much easier.

6. Know When They Can Brush on Their Own

Children can start learning how to brush their own teeth from around the age of three, but they will still need supervision and support. By around eight years old, many children can manage brushing more independently. Until then, keep an eye on their technique and make sure they are brushing for long enough.

One of the best tricks? Lead by example. Children copy what they see, so if they notice you brushing carefully and consistently, they are more likely to do the same.

7. Baby Teeth Matter More Than You Might Think

Baby teeth usually begin to loosen and fall out at around age six, making room for adult teeth. Sometimes this happens a little earlier or later, and that can be perfectly normal.

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they still have an important job to do. They help children chew, speak and hold space for adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early because of decay or an accident, neighbouring teeth may move into the gap, which can crowd the adult teeth as they come through.

Final Thoughts: Healthy Habits, Happy Smiles

Helping your child care for their teeth is one of the best gifts you can give their future smile. Healthy teeth can help children eat comfortably, speak clearly and feel confident when they smile. By starting early, making brushing fun and keeping up with regular dental visits, you can set them up with habits that last a lifetime.

At Ringmer Dental, we are here to support your child’s oral health every step of the way. If you are ready to book their first dental appointment, contact us today on 01622 682029. Let’s help your child learn to love their smile.

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Is Teeth Whitening Right for Me?

In general, teeth whitening may be suitable for people with healthy teeth and gums who would like to improve the appearance of their smile. Before starting, your dentist will check your mouth and talk you through whether teeth whitening is the right option for you.

What About Crowns, Veneers, Dentures and Fillings?

Here is the important bit: teeth whitening only works on natural enamel. It will not change the colour of existing restorations such as composite fillings, dentures, crowns, bonding, veneers or bridges. If you already have dental work, it may need to be replaced afterwards so it matches your new tooth shade.

How Our At-Home Whitening Works

At Ringmer Dental, we offer at-home teeth whitening. First, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. These are sent to a laboratory where custom-made whitening trays are created just for you. Once your trays are ready, your dentist will show you how to apply the gel and advise how long to wear them for. This will depend on the strength of the gel used and how quickly you are hoping to see results.

When Will I See Results?

Most people can expect to see results within two to three weeks. The level of whitening varies from person to person, but teeth may generally lighten by around 6 to 12 shades.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Teeth whitening is not permanent, but with good care you can help your brighter smile last for longer. We would normally recommend a top-up treatment every year.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Professional teeth whitening is considered safe by most dental health professionals. Studies have shown that using 10% carbamide peroxide has no effect on the hardness or mineral content of the tooth’s enamel surface, and professional whitening does not cause permanent damage to the enamel.

Will I Get Any Side Effects?

Some people notice temporary sensitivity to cold during or after whitening. Others may experience gum discomfort, a sore throat or white patches along the gum line. These symptoms are usually temporary and should disappear within a few days of finishing treatment.

Keeping Your Smile Brighter for Longer

A few small habits can make a big difference after whitening:

• Brush your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, using a fluoride toothpaste.
• Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks.
• Visit your dental team regularly, as often as they recommend.
• Limit foods and drinks that can stain teeth, such as coffee, tea and red wine.
• If you smoke, stopping can help prevent discolouration and staining.

Ready to find out whether teeth whitening could help you feel more confident about your smile? To arrange a visit or ask a question, contact Ringmer Dental on 01273 813898.

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How to Keep Sensitive Teeth Calm

The good news? A few small daily habits can make a big difference. Think of these as your tooth-friendly toolkit for keeping sensitivity under control.

• Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush at a gentle 45-degree angle to your gums. This helps keep enamel clean and strong while reducing the risk of toothbrush abrasion and gum recession.
• Change your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles start to look tired. Fresh bristles do a much better job of keeping your smile clean.
• Try a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These can help calm sensitivity, but remember that the benefits usually continue only while you keep using the toothpaste.
• Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth daily. Healthy teeth and gums are less likely to become sensitive.
• Keep acidic foods and drinks to mealtimes where possible. If you enjoy acidic drinks, using a straw can help reduce contact with your teeth.
• Wait at least 30 minutes after eating or drinking before brushing. This gives enamel time to reharden and helps prevent brushing it away while it is softened.
• If you clench or grind your teeth when stressed, mention it to your dentist. A custom mouth guard may help protect your teeth from further wear.
• If you are having teeth whitening, a little sensitivity can happen. It should ease once treatment is finished, and your dentist can suggest ways to make the process more comfortable.
• See your dentist as often as they recommend. Regular visits help spot small issues early, before they become bigger, more uncomfortable problems.

If sensitivity keeps making surprise appearances, do not just put up with it. Booking an appointment with your dentist can help uncover the cause and identify the best treatment for long-lasting relief. After all, your teeth should let you enjoy life’s little pleasures, from morning coffee to summer ice cream, without the drama.

If it has been a while since your last check-up, booking a routine appointment could be one of the best things you do for your oral health. To arrange a visit or ask a question, contact Ringmer Dental on 01273 813898.

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In this month’s blog, the team at Ringmer Dentalare looking at six of the biggest threats to healthy teeth and gums. From lifestyle choices to neglected routines, here’s what to watch out for — and why it matters.

Smoking

Smoking is one of the most damaging habits for your mouth. As well as staining teeth and causing bad breath, it increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss and mouth cancer. It can also slow healing after dental treatment, making it even harder for your mouth to stay healthy.

Too much sugar

Sugar feeds the plaque bacteria that constantly build up on teeth. As those bacteria process sugar, they produce acids that wear away enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. Cutting back on sugary foods and drinks can make a real difference to your oral health over time.

Teeth grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can put enormous pressure on your teeth and jaw. It may be linked to stress, anxiety or sleep problems, and often happens without you realising. Over time, grinding can lead to worn teeth, fractures, headaches, jaw pain, receding gums and joint problems. If you suspect you grind your teeth, your dentist can help you find ways to protect them.

Oral piercings

Tongue, cheek and lip piercings may look appealing, but they can create serious dental problems. Oral piercings can increase the risk of infection and may also lead to chipped or cracked teeth, gum irritation and nerve damage if they are not carefully maintained.

Gum disease

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults in the UK, yet it can be easy to miss in its early stages. Because it is often painless at first, many people do not realise there is a problem until the condition has progressed.

The good news is that gum disease is largely preventable. Since it is caused by bacteria in plaque, a strong daily oral hygiene routine and regular dental check-ups are the best ways to keep it under control.

Skipping dental appointments

Even with a good brushing and flossing routine at home, regular dental appointments still matter. Seeing your dentist routinely helps spot problems early, often before they become painful, costly or urgent. In many cases, prevention really is the simplest treatment.

When was the last time you saw your dentist?

If it has been a while, booking a routine appointment could be one of the best things you do for your oral health. If you would like to arrange a visit or ask any questions, contact Ringmer Dental on 01273 813898.

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This month the team at Ringmer Dental look at why you should consider a dental implant to replace your missing teeth.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implantserves as an artificial replacement for the root of a tooth or multiple teeth. The implant is anchored into the jawbone, remaining invisible once placed. It provides a stable foundation for a crown, bridge,or denture, depending on the extent of tooth loss. Beyond restoring function and aesthetics, dental implants maintain jawbone integrity and density, thereby supporting the overall structure of the facial skeleton and adjacent soft tissues such as gum, cheeks, and lips. Dental implants facilitatenormal eating, chewing, speaking, and smiling, ensuring a natural appearance. Composed of titanium—a material known for its strength, light weight, and biocompatibility—dental implants are rarely rejected by the body and boast the highest success rate among implanted surgical devices. However, absolute success cannot be guaranteed with any implant procedure.

Prior to treatment

Before commencing treatment, a comprehensive assessment of jawbone health and volume is required. This typically involves radiographic imaging. Should there be insufficient or unhealthy bone, a bone graft may be indicated before proceeding. Additionally, it is essential that the extraction site has fully healed prior to implant placement; generally, a minimum three-month healing period following tooth extraction is recommended. During this time, a temporary denture or bridge can be provided to conceal the gap.

Treatment process

Dental implants are placed under local anaesthesia, rendering the procedure comparable to having a filling. Many patients find implant placement less challenging than tooth removal. Mild discomfort may occur during the initial week post-surgery as osseointegration begins, which is commonly managed with over-the-counter analgesics. A period of 3–5 months is then allowed for the implant to establish a secure integration with the bone.

Once the implant has integrated, an abutment is attached, serving as the support for a crown, bridge,or denture. The number of implants required will depend on the scope of restoration needed. Prior to initiating any treatment, a detailed written treatment plan will be provided, outlining the specific procedures involved and an estimate of costs.

Aftercare

With proper care, dental implants are expected to last at least ten years. Oral hygiene around implants is similar to that required for natural teeth. Patients who smoke should be advised that smoking significantly diminishes the likelihood of implant success, and alternative treatment options may need to be considered.

If you have any questions or would like more information on whether dental implants are right for you contact Ringmer Dental today on 01273 813898 and arrange a consultation.

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If my teeth don’t hurt, they must be healthy

Tooth decay can develop for a long time without causing pain. By the time discomfort occurs, the damage is often advanced. Regular dental check-ups allow problems to be identified early—sometimes years before symptoms appear—helping to prevent more complex and costly treatment.

A hard‑bristled toothbrush cleans teeth more effectively

Hard bristles may feel more thorough, but they can damage tooth enamel and irritate the gums, leading to abrasion and recession. A soft‑bristled toothbrush is just as effective at cleaning, while being far gentler on both teeth and gums.

Diet fizzy drinks are harmless because they contain no sugar

While lower in sugar, diet fizzy drinks are still highly acidic. Acids such as citric, carbonic, and phosphoric acid can erode tooth enamel, increasing the risk of sensitivity and cavities over time.

You should brush your teeth immediately after eating

Brushing straight after a meal—particularly one that is acidic—can actually weaken enamel. It is best to wait at least an hour before brushing to allow enamel to re-harden naturally.

“Have a baby, lose a tooth”

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay, but tooth loss is not inevitable. Maintaining good oral hygiene, following a balanced diet, and attending routine dental appointments can significantly reduce dental risks during pregnancy.

At Ringmer Dental, our skilled dentists are here to banish dental myths and provide you with only fact based advice on maintaining your oral health. Call Ringmer Dental on 01273 813898 for more information.

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In this month’s blog the team at Ringmer Dental,try to answer some of the most commonly asked teeth straightening and cosmetic brace questions.

What Are the Benefits of Teeth Straightening Treatment?

For many people, getting their teeth straightened is a purely cosmetic decision. Having perfectly positioned teeth can make you feel better about how you look and give your self-confidence a boost.

But aside from the aesthetic benefits, there are also some fundamental health advantages including:

• Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Properly aligned teeth reduce the risk of developing TMJ (the joint that connects to your skull) disorders, which can cause considerable pain.

How Does Teeth Straightening Work?

Teeth straightening treatments use prolonged gentle force to gradually improve the position of each tooth. The pressure applied by a brace or aligner is so slight you’ll barely notice it after you’re used to wearing the appliance.

What Does Invisalign Treatment Involve?

Aligners use precise custom trays that fit your teeth perfectly but gradually apply pressure to promote movement. We offer Invisalign; a comfortable, subtle aligner that’s great for anyone that doesn’t want a fixed appliance. You’ll get a completely new custom-made tray every few weeks to continue your teeth movement.

How Long Does Teeth Straightening Take?

The exact length of your treatment depends on the complexity of your misalignments. We can address some cases in around six months to a year, while other cases can take two or more years. During your initial consultation, we’ll be able to give you more information about your expected treatment timeline.

How Often Will I Need to Come to The Surgery During Treatment?

For Invisalign, you’ll need to use new aligners roughly every two weeks and you will need to attend for appointments every four to six weeks to ensure your teeth are moving as expected.

Am I Too Old for Teeth Straightening?

No. Although you may see more teenagers undergoing teeth straightening treatments, it’s never too late to enjoy the benefits of straight teeth.

If you’re conscious of wearing a noticeable appliance, Invisalign is clear and removable, making it subtle and convenient.

At Ringmer Dental, we are pleased to offer Invisalign teeth straightening to suit your lifestyle and clinical needs. Our skilled dentists are here to advise you on which option is best for you.Call Ringmer Dental on 01273 and book a free consultation today!

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In order to ensure that you are Valentine’s ready, this month the team at Ringmer Dental look at some top tips to keep your breath, minty fresh.

Toothbrushing

It is important that you brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste, for at least two minutes, twice a day. This helps to remove plaque and food debris which if left can become a breeding ground for odour causing bacteria. Choose a soft bristled toothbrush and be sure to change it every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed to ensure that you are brushing effectively. Just be careful not to over brush as this can wear away tooth enamel and cause sensitivity issues.

Interdental Cleaning Aids

Using interdental cleaning aids helps to remove food which may have become trapped between teeth, in areas brushing alone misses. If you are struggling to find an interdental cleaning aid you can use, ask the hygienist on your next visit and they will be able to advise on the best aids to meet your needs.

Ditch the Cigarettes!

Smoking cigarettes causes bad breath in a number of different ways. First, the smell of the cigarette smoke itself can linger on your breath. Smoking also dries out your mouth, one of the most common reasons for bad breath. Finally, smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease, which is another source of odour from the mouth. There are many reasons to quit! Smoking, and bad breath might rank lower on the list than preventing heart disease or lung cancer, but it’s still a valid reason to stop.

Visit the dentist regularly

It is important that you attend for appointments as often as your dentist recommends. The dentist will be able to identify any problems which may be exacerbating your bad breath such as infections or gum disease.

If you are experiencing bad breath and it is affecting your confidence, do not hesitate to call Ringmer Dental on 01273 and book an appointment. The team at Ringmer Dental will welcome you with open arms and will treat your condition with the utmost care. You do not have to be embarrassed with us, all you need to do is sit down and we will do what we do best.

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