Festive fun can be bad for teeth

ONE OF THE UK’S TOP cosmetic dentists has warned that the festive season can bring with it an unwanted “gift” to those who put off seeking treatment.

Seasonal treats like toffees and nuts may be fun to eat but can cause havoc to anyone who may have not given their teeth the attention they deserve, according to Dr Ken Harris, of Riveredge Cosmetic Dentistry in Sunderland.

Dr Harris – who is one of the country’s most qualified emergency dentist Richmond cosmetic dentists and lectures around the globe – is warning people to get their teeth checked before Christmas if they feel they might have a problem.

“The last thing anyone wants to be doing is sitting at home nursing a toothache or a loose tooth at the time of year when they should be enjoying themselves,” he said.

“And there’s the added problem of so many surgeries being closed over the festive season.

“Far better to get the situation dealt with before Christmas and New Year.”

Dr Harris added that the inevitable celebrations at this time of year also bring in their wake late nights, too much alcohol and too many caffeine-rich fizzy drinks to help stay awake the following day – which can all be hugely detrimental to teeth.

“It’s that time of year when people are constantly out celebrating, with late nights and more alcohol than usual,” said Dr Harris, who has almost 35 years’ experience working in general dental practice.

“This can lead to dehydration and reduce the flow of saliva, which helps protect teeth, putting people at real risk of acid damage.

“Many people then compound the problem by drinking energy drinks to stay awake.  Carbonated drinks like these, even sugar-free versions, contain significant acid in the fizz which soften the enamel on your teeth, and if you then brush softened teeth, they wear down really fast.”

Dr Harris has the following tips for anyone who is planning to party in the next few weeks:

• Don’t brush your teeth straight after having carbonated drinks or fruit juice. This could actually damage teeth because tooth enamel would be softened by the acid.
• Wait four hours after having fizzy drinks before brushing your teeth – giving the enamel time to harden up again.
• Drink plenty of water, especially if you exercise a lot.
• If you vomit, do not brush your teeth immediately, but rinse your mouth with water.

“It’s really important not to forget to look after your teeth at this time of year,” said Dr Harris.

For further information visit www.riveredge.co.uk.

Dr Harris is one of the UK’s foremost cosmetic dentists and a multi-award winner. With almost 35 years of experience, he has an MSc in Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry and is a Fellow of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

He is a member of the AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) and acts as UK clinical director for California Center for Advanced Dental Studies in San Francisco along with lecturing around the globe.