What our dentist knows about you from a check-up

It sounds worrying to many people, but our dental team at Hawthorn Drive know more about you than you think. More specifically, we will have an idea of who you are after we look at your teeth!

At Hawthorn Drive Dental, our dentist in Ipswich will always be happy to meet with new patients to undertake general dental work or cosmetic-based work. And, of course, to offer advice on lifestyle and diet to keep your mouth healthy.

So, what does our dentist in Ipswich know after looking in your mouth?

If you smoke

If you smoke, our dentist in Ipswich will know.

Smoking can cause yellow or brown stains on the teeth that are difficult to remove with brushing and flossing.

It can also cause bad breath and a persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Your dietary preferences

Most people have a sweet tooth. And a diet that is high in sugar can increase the chance of tooth decay forming, as these foods provide a source of nutrition for the bacteria that produce plaque and acids in the mouth.

Drinking sugary or acidic beverages, such as soda or sports drinks, can also increase the risk of tooth erosion and decay. A diet that is lower in calcium and vitamin D can lead to weak, brittle teeth that are more susceptible to decay and breakage.

On the other hand, a balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts, can help to promote strong, healthy teeth and gums. Additionally, a diet that is high in fibre and water can help to keep the mouth clean and promote saliva production, which can help to neutralise harmful acids and protect the teeth.

Your general health

Your general health can often be reflected in your oral health. For example, certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of gum disease.

Nutritional deficiencies, like a lack of vitamin D or calcium, can also affect oral health, leading to issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Of course, we will always aim to rule out general causes of these issues, such as oral hygiene, before we begin assessing your health for other issues.

If you drink

Yes, we will know if you like a drink and, likely, how often you do. Alcohol is a diuretic and can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth, which in turn, increases the risk of tooth decay. Certain alcoholic beverages, such as red wine and dark liquors, can cause staining on the teeth due to the high concentrations of tannins, so we will likely be able to tell if you drink red wine or not.

If you brush and floss

Finally, it’s worth noting that our dental team will be able to spot if you brush and floss your teeth twice a day or not.

Pockets of plaque form in between the teeth if they are not flossed, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay if left unchecked.

We will always be happy to offer you advice on how best to care for your teeth, as well as advise you on your diet.