Oral health is genuinely linked to systemic health — poor gum disease has been associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications, adverse pregnancy outcomes and dementia. Yet only around half of UK adults visit a dentist regularly, and basic oral hygiene habits leave much to be desired.

The Foundation: Daily Oral Hygiene

Brushing — twice daily for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste (minimum 1350ppm fluoride for adults; 1000ppm for children 0–6). Use a soft-bristled brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Electric toothbrushes consistently outperform manual in clinical studies — particularly oscillating-rotating designs (Oral-B). Don’t rinse after brushing — spit out excess toothpaste but leave the fluoride residue on your teeth.

Interdental cleaning — flossing or interdental brushes (Tepe, Oral-B) daily. Around 40% of tooth surface is between the teeth, inaccessible to a toothbrush. Floss reaches tight contacts; interdental brushes are more effective where there are gaps. Waterpiks are a good adjunct for those who struggle with floss or have braces.

Mouthwash — a useful adjunct, not a replacement. Fluoride mouthwash (used at a different time to brushing) tops up enamel protection. Chlorhexidine mouthwash (Corsodyl) is the most effective antibacterial but stains teeth brown with prolonged use; limit to 4-week courses for treatment of gum disease or after dental procedures.

Mouth Ulcers: Causes and Treatment

Aphthous ulcers are the most common type — small, shallow, painful sores on the inner cheeks, tongue, or gum. They are extremely common (affecting around 20% of the population) and in most cases benign and self-healing in 7–14 days. Triggers: minor trauma (biting the cheek), stress, hormonal fluctuations, certain toothpastes (sodium lauryl sulphate), nutritional deficiencies (B12, iron, folate, zinc). OTC treatment: Bonjela Adult Gel (choline salicylate + cetalkinium) reduces inflammation and has mild antiseptic action. Hydrocortisone pellets (Corlan) — pressed against the ulcer, reduce inflammation and speed healing. Benzydamine mouthwash (Difflam) for pain relief when multiple or large ulcers make eating difficult. Saltwater rinses — cheap, effective and soothing. See a dentist or GP if: ulcers last beyond 3 weeks, are very large, recur frequently, or you have systemic symptoms.

Gum Disease: Recognising and Reversing It

Gingivitis (inflamed gums that bleed when brushed) affects the majority of UK adults to some degree. It is reversible with improved oral hygiene. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis — irreversible bone loss around teeth, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. A 4-week course of chlorhexidine mouthwash alongside improved brushing technique and flossing can dramatically improve gingivitis.

Sensitive Teeth

Dentine hypersensitivity causes sharp pain to cold, sweet, or acidic stimuli. It occurs when enamel is eroded or gum recession exposes the dentine, with its fluid-filled tubules. Treatment: use a toothpaste specifically for sensitivity (Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief) — stannous fluoride and potassium nitrate are the active ingredients. These need consistent, prolonged use (several weeks) to build effect. Apply directly to sensitive areas with a finger and leave on for an hour after brushing for enhanced benefit.

Browse Oral Care products at Huncoat Pharmacy. Related: Gut Health Guide.

At Huncoat Pharmacy: Pharmacy First dental pain service, Browse oral health products.