Dental health

If you cannot contact your dentist, or you do not have one, you can use ‘Get help’ from NHS 111 online.

Make sure you:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Brush last thing at night before bed and at least on one other occasion – usually when you get up in the morning
• Use fluoride toothpaste. Check the label to make sure it contains between 1,350ppm and 1,500ppm of fluoride
• Spit out after brushing and don’t rinse – if you rinse, the fluoride won’t work as well

You can also find lots of useful tips for looking after your teeth on the Kids Health website.

Tips to ease dental fear:

If you’re anxious about seeing the dentist, here are some tips to ease the fear:

• Visit the dental surgery to have a look around, meet the receptionist and dentist and see the environment. Tell the dentist that you’re anxious and what your fears are, so they know beforehand
• Pick an appointment time early in the morning, so you have less time to dwell on it
• Agree a sign with the dentist to signal that you need a break and want them to stop. It can be as simple as pointing your finger, and will help you feel more in control
• Talk to the dentist about using a numbing gel if you have a fear of needles
• Use headphones to listen to music during your visit. It may help you relax

There is more help and information on the NHS website

Fillings

Fillings are used to repair a cavity (hole) in your tooth caused by decay. Your dentist will offer you the type of filling they consider necessary. The most common type of filling is dental amalgam, made from a mixture of different metals. Dental amalgam fillings are often used on your back teeth, as they’re hard-wearing. If you need a filling for one of your front teeth, your dentist may suggest a tooth-coloured (white) filling. Talk to your dentist if you have any concerns.

More information about fillings can be found on the NHS website.