Most of us like to think we take good care of our teeth and gums everyday but a recent survey has highlighted that at least 50% of the population are probably doing something wrong!

it is estimated that one is six people are risking serious damage to their teeth and gums by using a wide range of of unsuitable but easily to and items to remove trapped food between their teeth which includes needles, screwdrivers, earrings, keys and paper clips.

To make matters worse more than half those surveyed did not know the proper way to brush their teeth, they didn’t clean between their teeth on a regular basis and never remove odour causing bacteria from their tongues.

The National dental health survey carried out by the oral health charity the British Dental Health Foundation also discovered that many people never bother to remove food stuck between their teeth which is increasing their risks of suffering from bad breath, gum diseases and tooth decay.

The best method of removing food lodged between the teeth, according to the foundation, is an inter dental wood stick. Inter dental wood sticks are shaped specifically for the purpose and whilst cocktail sticks might appear similar they aren’t and as such should be avoided.

It could be that those surveyed had never been advised on the proper method of cleaning their teeth and they may now be too embarrassed to ask. presumably they were all responsible adults and might have felt silly asking for advice on the best methods of cleaning their teeth.

Whilst it is possible to find the information it is no substitute for talking face to face with your dentists and hygienist who can show you which method is best suited to you and your teeth.

If you are unsure whether your oral health care routine is as good as it could be, don’t feel embarrassed speak to your dentist, they are after all professionals on such matters and will be more than happy to help and that could save you both time in the dentists chair and another pull on your wallet.

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