Oral Health
Information for the Public
Important Messages about your Oral Health
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes.
- Spit out the toothpaste. Do not rinse out your mouth.
- Floss between your teeth.
- Eat less sugar
- Have fewer sugary drinks
- Have regular dental check ups
Protect your children’s teeth with a few simple rules:
- Brush your child’s teeth and gums at least twice a day. It’s best to do this in the morning and last thing at night.
- Watch your child when they’re brushing their teeth. Try to make sure they don’t swallow the toothpaste.
- Spit, do not rinse’ after brushing. This gives the toothpaste time to work on your child’s teeth to protect them.
- Eat sugary food and drinks at mealtimes only.
- Pasteurised milk and tap water are the safest drinks for your child’s teeth.
- Register with a dentist. They will tell you how often you need to visit. Give your child sugar-free medicines if possible.
- Do not add sugar or salt (of any kind) to weaning foods.
- Choose healthy and nutritious foods and drinks.
For more information on children’s oral health and nutrition:
- Childsmile – Improving the oral health of children in Scotland
- Looking after your child’s teeth | Parent Club
- Fun first foods: An easy guide to introducing solid foods – Publications – Public Health Scotland
- First Steps Nutrition Trust
For more information on how to take care of your own oral health visit: Taking care of your oral health | NHS inform
How to access dental services
Are you registered with a dentist?
Yes
If you are experiencing pain or need advice, contact your dental practice during it’s opening hours.
If out of hours contact NHS24 on 111.
Routine dental care required?
Contact your dental practice during it’s opening hours.
No
If you are experiencing pain contact the Public Dental service unregistered dental emergency service on 01698 753673 option 1.
If out of hours contact NHS24 on 111.
Routine dental care required?
A list of dental practices accepting new patients can be found by visiting: Dental Practices accepting new NHS patients.
Mouth Cancer
These increase your risk of developing mouth cancer:
- Smoking
- Using other types of tobacco including chewing tobacco
- Regularly drinking more than the weekly alcohol limit of 14 units
- Infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV)
45 Second Self-check Examination
You should see your dentist straight away if you have any of these:
- Mouth ulcers which do not clear up in three weeks
- Red and white patches in your mouth
- Unusual lumps or swellings in your mouth or head and neck area
To view a demonstration on mouth self-examination watch the video below or visit: How to do a mouth cancer check at home – YouTube
For more information on mouth cancer visit:
For more information on mouth cancer and general oral health visit:
