TOOTH decay and gum problems can cause pain, issues with self-confidence and tooth loss.
But nearly one in three people in the UK suffers with this.
There is also a direct link between oral health and overall health.
Some research suggests heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral germs can cause.
Jane Atkinson looks at ways to keep your mouth healthy . . .
DENTAL FLOSS
THIS is one of the many ways you can clean between your teeth, but I have discovered that not all dental flosses are equal.
If, like me, you don’t have straight teeth with narrow gaps, then the skinnier types of floss just don’t touch the sides.
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I tried out Biomed dental floss, which feels stronger and thicker than most alternatives.
It really does the job well if you have decent gaps between teeth.
I went with the mint & yuzu flavour and, although I couldn’t actually detect any taste, the floss worked great.
I will certainly keep on using this.
£3.99, biomed-pro.com
FRESHNESS
WE all know about good bacteria for our gut, but we should treat our mouths in the same way.
Polished London has developed prebiotic breath drops for healthier, long-lasting freshness and promotion of good bacteria.
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The drops contain an antioxidant-packed formula featuring prebiotics and vitamin E.
They work in harmony with the oral microbiome to fight decay and sensitivity and neutralise bad breath.
The bottle is pretty enough to sit on your desk. It comes with a little pipette and you need 2-3 drops.
The drops come in apple-and-mint, which is a lovely, soft mint flavour with a refreshing apple backnote.
£9.99 for a 20ml bottle, polishedlondon.com
TOOTHBRUSH
FOR almost £900, you’d really want a designer handbag on your arm, not a toothbrush in your bathroom, but hear me out.
Oral-B brings you the iO 10, combining oscillation and rotation to give micro vibrations for a deep clean of your gnashers.
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Versions start at under £50 but can reach £892, although that one is currently on offer at around half price.
The more expensive you go, the more tech you get, such as programmes for gum health and whitening.
Despite the price, I believe iO brushes are a good investment.
After ten weeks, I see a huge difference in my receding gums.
You also get an app that gives real-time brushing feedback.