Healthy teeth and gums

Some swelling of the gums
and there is also plaque
which cannot really be
seen because it is white.

Shows terrible oral hygiene.

Plaque is constantly forming on our teeth. Plaque consists of mucin , found in saliva and oral bacteria which adhere to the mucin.

Teeth covered with plaque .

This picture which reveals how
much plaque there is
by using a disclosing tablet.

These are disclosing tablets.
These are available at the surgery
and can be purchased at most chemists

We recommend the use of an interspace brush in addition to your normal toothbrush The interspace brush can prevent the build-up of plaque and food particles in areas a normal toothbrush cannot reach. Particular attention should be paid to the areas between the gums and the brackets.

Work out your Toothbrush Grade

A   B   D   C   D   F

EFFORT = RESULTS

Guidelines for Toothbrushing Grades

A - The teeth, brackets and bands present a brilliant shine to them and are free from plaque or food debris. The soft tissue gums are pink and are not swollen.

B - The teeth, brackets and bands present a shine and have one or two small areas of plaque or food debris. The soft tissue gums are generally pink and show some swelling.

C - The teeth, brackets and bands present a dull appearance and have three or more areas of plaque or food debris. The soft tissue gums have a red tone to them and are slightly inflamed and swollen.

D - The teeth, brackets and bands present a very dull appearance and have many areas of plaque and food debris. The soft tissue gums are red and inflamed and swollen.

F - The teeth, brackets and bands have not seen a toothbrush for quite some time. The soft tissue gums are very red, swollen and inflamed.