The key risk factors for students heading off to university regarding their oral health are from excessive alcohol consumption, caffeine dependence and a poor diet.
The team at Ringmer Dental have therefore come up with some top tips to ensure that you can enjoy university without worrying about your oral health.
Oral hygiene routine
It is recommended to brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean interdentally every day. This practice helps remove food particles and plaque that are trapped between teeth, where brushing alone may not reach, thus reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Use a straw
While it may seem silly, using a straw can help prevent tooth staining by minimising direct contact with your front teeth. Additionally, this reduces the duration that harmful acids are in contact with your teeth, reducing the risk of acid erosion.
Limit your sugar intake
Sugar is a major contributor to tooth decay. Although sugar is an essential part of a balanced diet, excessive consumption can be harmful. Wherever possible try to limit your sugar intake to mealtimes and avoid frequent snacking on sugary foods to minimize the risk of tooth decay.
Do not constantly sip
Sugar in wine, mixed drinks and fizzy drinks combine with bacteria in your mouth to form acid which then attacks your teeth. This ‘attack’ generally has a life span of 20 minutes so every time you take another sip, the cycle restarts. The long-term effect is weakened enamel and susceptibility to tooth decay.
Visit the dentist
Whether you choose to register with a dentist at university or remain with your dentist at home, it is important that you attend for regular, routine appointments as often as your dentist recommends to maintain your oral health.
Want to ensure that you can hit the ground running when you arrive at University? Why not book in for a routine dental appointment and ensure that your oral health is top notch before you go. Call Ringmer Dental on 01273 813898 today to book your appointment.