Blog - Preventive Dentistry

at Absolute Dental Care

Fresh cleans, healthy gums & the fascinating world of oral microbiome testing — here’s why prevention is the real smile secret 💙

Steph Shepherd July 22, 2026

Prevention First: Why Regular Dental Care Matters More Than You Think

As we move into the second half of the year, July is the perfect reminder to check in on your oral health and stay ahead of problems before they start 💙

Preventative dental care is one of the most important things you can do for your smile — not just to keep teeth clean, but to protect your overall health, comfort, confidence, and future dental costs too.

Why Preventative Care Matters

Many dental problems begin quietly, without pain or obvious symptoms. Cavities, gum disease, grinding, and even infections can develop slowly over time.

Regular dental visits help us:
🦷 Detect issues early
🪥 Remove harmful plaque and tartar buildup
😁 Keep gums healthy
✨ Monitor changes in teeth and bite
💙 Prevent more complex and costly treatment later on

Prevention is always easier (and often cheaper) than repair.

The Importance of Hygiene Appointments

Professional hygiene appointments do much more than “just a clean.”

During your hygiene visit, we carefully remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing at home can miss — especially around the gumline and between teeth.

Regular hygiene visits can help:
✔ Reduce inflammation and bleeding gums
✔ Lower the risk of gum disease
✔ Improve bad breath
✔ Support overall oral and general health
✔ Keep your smile feeling fresh and healthy

Your hygienist can also personalise home care tips to suit your teeth, lifestyle, and goals.

What Is Oral Microbiome Testing?

Did you know your mouth contains billions of bacteria?

Some bacteria are healthy and protective, while others are linked to gum disease, inflammation, bad breath, and even systemic health concerns.

Oral microbiome testing helps identify the specific bacteria present in your mouth, allowing us to better understand your individual risk factors and tailor treatment more precisely.

Microbiome testing may help:
🔬 Detect harmful bacteria early
🦷 Assess gum disease risk
💨 Investigate persistent bad breath
💙 Support long-term gum health
✨ Create more personalised treatment plans

It’s a modern approach to preventative dental care that gives us deeper insight into your oral health.

Small Appointments Can Make a Big Difference

Keeping up with your regular check-ups and hygiene appointments can help maintain a healthier smile for years to come.

Whether it’s been 6 months or a little longer since your last visit, July is a great time to prioritise your oral health and book your preventative care appointment.

📞 Contact our team today to schedule your next visit. Your future smile will thank you 💙

🦷 Your Smile Is in Great Hands This Winter 💙

Steph Shepherd July 8, 2026

At Absolute Dental Care, we know that feeling comfortable and confident with your dental care team makes all the difference 😊

That’s why we want to reassure our patients that your ongoing care continues to be supported by an experienced, gentle, and highly skilled clinical team — with Kara, our Oral Health Therapist, playing an important role in helping patients maintain healthy smiles and positive dental experiences.

Kara is highly trained in preventative and restorative dental care and works closely alongside our dental team to provide personalised treatment focused on long-term oral health, comfort, and prevention.

Her calm and friendly approach helps patients feel relaxed and supported throughout their appointments, whether they’re visiting for a routine check-up or treatment they may feel nervous about. Kara takes the time to explain things clearly, answer questions, and ensure patients feel informed and comfortable every step of the way 💙

✨ Many patients are surprised to learn just how much an Oral Health Therapist can do!

Kara is qualified to provide a wide range of treatments and services, including:
✔️ Comprehensive dental examinations and oral health assessments
✔️ Gum disease treatment and ongoing maintenance
✔️ Fillings and restorative treatment within her scope
✔️ Dental x-rays and monitoring of oral health changes
✔️ Preventive treatments and personalised oral health advice
✔️ Fissure sealants to help protect teeth from decay
✔️ Professional teeth whitening ✨
✔️ Laser-assisted treatments
✔️ Extraction of primary (baby) teeth where needed

Prevention is a major focus of Kara’s care philosophy 🌿

By helping patients stay on top of regular examinations, gum health, and early treatment, she works to identify and manage small issues before they become larger concerns. This proactive approach helps patients maintain healthier smiles while reducing the likelihood of more complex dental problems in the future.

Patients often comment on how approachable, reassuring, and gentle Kara is — especially those who may feel anxious about dental appointments or who haven’t been to the dentist in a while. Her goal is to help every patient feel comfortable, supported, and confident about their oral health journey.

Whether you’re coming in for your regular check-up, managing gum health concerns, looking for professional whitening, or simply wanting peace of mind about your smile, you can feel confident knowing you’re in caring and capable hands 😁

💙 New Financial Year = Fresh Health Fund Limits! 🦷

A new financial year has arrived, which for many patients means refreshed health fund extras limits and new dental benefits ready to use ✨

If you have extras cover, now is the perfect time to prioritise your oral health and book the dental care you may have been putting off.

Many patients are surprised to learn their health fund may contribute towards important preventive and restorative treatments, helping reduce out-of-pocket costs while keeping their smile healthy and on track 😊

Now is a great time to book appointments for:
✨ Check-ups and cleans
✨ Gum health treatment
✨ Fillings and restorative care
✨ Professional teeth whitening
✨ Preventive care for children and families
✨ Dental x-rays and oral health assessments

Starting the new financial year with fresh limits can make it easier to stay proactive with your dental care before schedules become busy later in the year.

If you’re overdue for a visit, have treatment you’ve been delaying, or simply want to keep your smile healthy and maintained, our team is here to help 💙

😁 We’re Here to Help

At Absolute Dental Care, our goal is always to provide dental care that feels supportive, gentle, and personalised for every patient who visits us.

If you have questions about your treatment options, oral health needs, or health fund cover, our friendly team is always happy to help.

📞 Contact Absolute Dental Care today to organise your next appointment and keep your smile healthy, confident, and well cared for 💙

You’re in great hands with Kara 💙 Continued care at Absolute Dental Care

Steph Shepherd June 24, 2026

At Absolute Dental Care, we understand how important it is to feel comfortable, confident, and well cared for every time you visit us. Your ongoing oral health is always our priority, and we’re committed to ensuring continuity of care with a team you can trust.

We’re pleased to share that our Oral Health Therapist, Kara, is available and continuing to provide high-quality care for both new and returning patients throughout this period.

Kara is a valued member of our clinical team who brings a calm, gentle, and highly skilled approach to patient care. She focuses strongly on prevention and education, helping patients not only treat dental concerns but also understand how to maintain long-term oral health and healthy smiles for life.

Her approachable nature and reassuring manner make her especially supportive for patients who may feel a little nervous or anxious about dental visits. Kara takes the time to listen, explain treatment clearly, and ensure every patient feels informed and comfortable before, during, and after their appointment.

Kara can assist you with:
• Comprehensive dental examinations and oral health assessments
• Gum health care, including prevention and management of gum disease
• Fillings and restorative treatment within her clinical scope
• Preventive care such as fissure sealants and personalised oral health advice
• Dental radiographs (x-rays)
• Professional teeth whitening ✨
• Laser-assisted treatments
• Extraction of primary (baby) teeth where required

She is also trained in advanced techniques such as laser treatments and whitening, allowing her to provide additional treatment options where appropriate during your hygiene and examination visits.

Kara works closely with our wider dental team to ensure your care remains seamless, coordinated, and consistent. This team-based approach means you can feel confident that your treatment plan is always well supported and aligned with your long-term oral health goals.

Whether you are coming in for a routine check-up, ongoing gum maintenance, or looking to refresh your smile with whitening, Kara is here to support you every step of the way.

If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment, our friendly team is always here to help.

Warm regards,
Absolute Dental Care

The Oral Microbiome: Why the Health of Your Mouth Matters More Than You Think

Steph Shepherd June 9, 2026

When most people think about oral health, they think about cavities, brushing, flossing, and keeping their teeth clean. But emerging research is revealing something much bigger: the health of your mouth may have a significant impact on the health of your entire body.

At Absolute Dental Care, we’re passionate about helping patients understand the connection between oral health and overall wellbeing. One of the most important areas of modern dentistry is the study of the oral microbiome — the community of bacteria, fungi, and microorganisms that live in your mouth.

What Is the Oral Microbiome?

Your mouth is home to billions of microorganisms. Some of these bacteria are beneficial and play an important role in maintaining oral health. Others can become harmful when they multiply and create an imbalance.

A healthy oral microbiome helps protect your teeth, gums, and overall health. An unhealthy microbiome can contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and potentially a range of health conditions elsewhere in the body.

The key isn’t eliminating all bacteria — that’s impossible and undesirable. The goal is maintaining a healthy balance between the good and bad bacteria.

The Link Between Oral Health and Whole-Body Health

For many years, dentistry focused primarily on teeth and gums. Today, we understand that the mouth is closely connected to the rest of the body.

When harmful bacteria accumulate around the teeth and gums, they can trigger inflammation. As gum disease develops, these bacteria and the toxins they produce can enter the bloodstream.

Research has identified links between poor oral health and a number of systemic health conditions, including:

Heart disease
Stroke
Diabetes
Alzheimer’s disease
Arthritis
Pregnancy complications
Certain cancers

While research continues to evolve, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: chronic inflammation in the mouth may contribute to inflammation throughout the body.

Why Some People Are More at Risk

One of the most surprising discoveries in oral microbiome testing is that appearances can be deceiving.

Many patients who brush regularly and appear to have healthy mouths can still harbour harmful bacteria beneath the gumline. Conversely, some patients with less-than-perfect brushing habits may have relatively healthy bacterial profiles.

Factors that may influence your oral microbiome include:

Genetics
Existing health conditions
Medications
Immune system function
Diet
Stress
Oral hygiene habits
Environmental exposure
Contact with other people’s bacteria through saliva
Contact with animals especially dogs and cats
The work environment especially health care

This is why personalised assessment is so important.

How We Assess the Oral Microbiome

At Absolute Dental Care, microbiome assessment forms part of our comprehensive oral health examinations.

The process is simple and painless. A small sample is collected from around the gumline and examined under a microscope. This allows us to identify the types of bacteria present and determine whether a patient falls into a low, moderate, or high-risk category.

This information helps us tailor recommendations specifically to each patient’s needs.

Some patients require little more than routine maintenance. Others may benefit from additional strategies to reduce harmful bacteria and restore a healthier balance.

Signs Your Oral Microbiome May Be Out of Balance

An unhealthy oral microbiome doesn’t always cause obvious symptoms, but common warning signs may include:

Bleeding gums
Persistent bad breath
Swollen or tender gums
Receding gums
Loose teeth
Frequent plaque build-up
Recurrent dental problems

Even if you don’t experience these symptoms, regular examinations can identify issues before they become serious.

How to Support a Healthy Oral Microbiome

The good news is that there are many practical ways to improve and maintain a healthy oral environment.

1. Brush Thoroughly Twice Daily

Regular brushing helps reduce bacterial build-up and remove plaque before it causes damage.

2. Clean Between Your Teeth

A toothbrush only cleans part of each tooth surface. Flossing or using interdental brushes helps remove plaque and bacteria from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

3. Consider Water Flossing

Water flossers can help remove food particles and bacteria from difficult-to-reach areas and are an excellent addition to many oral hygiene routines.

4. Use Professional Recommendations

For patients with elevated bacterial risk, your dentist may recommend specific antimicrobial rinses (including the most effective Ozonated Water) or other targeted therapies to help restore balance.

5. Maintain Good General Hygiene

Hand hygiene, cleaning oral appliances such as aligners or retainers, and avoiding unnecessary bacterial exposure can all contribute to a healthier oral microbiome.

6. Attend Regular Dental Visits

Professional examinations and hygiene appointments remain one of the most effective ways to detect and manage oral health issues before they progress.

Prevention Is Always Better Than Treatment

One of the most encouraging aspects of oral microbiome research is that many risks are manageable through prevention.

Small daily habits can have a significant impact on your oral health and potentially your overall wellbeing. By identifying harmful bacteria early and taking steps to address them, we can help reduce inflammation, support healthier gums, and create a more balanced oral environment.

Discover What’s Happening in Your Mouth

Most people have never seen the bacteria living in their mouths. Yet understanding your oral microbiome can provide valuable insights into your oral health and overall wellness.

At Absolute Dental Care, our comprehensive examinations go beyond simply checking for cavities. We take a holistic approach to oral health, helping patients understand the connection between their mouth and the rest of their body.

If it’s been a while since your last dental examination, or if you’re interested in learning more about your oral microbiome, we invite you to book an appointment with our team.

Your mouth may be telling you more about your health than you realise.

🦷 World Oral Health Day 20th March 2026

Steph Shepherd March 20, 2026

A Happy Mouth Is a Happy Life

Every year on World Oral Health Day (20th March), we’re reminded of something simple but powerful:

A healthy smile helps support a happy, healthy life at every age.

This year’s theme — “A Happy Mouth Is a Happy Life” — highlights how good oral health allows us to eat comfortably, speak clearly, smile with confidence, and enjoy everyday moments.

At Absolute Dental Care, we see every day how caring for your teeth and gums can positively impact overall wellbeing.

The great news is that most dental problems are preventable with a few simple daily habits.

Why Oral Health Matters

Your mouth is the gateway to your body. Keeping it healthy helps you:

✨ Enjoy the foods you love
✨ Smile with confidence
✨ Speak clearly
✨ Reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
✨ Support your overall health and wellbeing

Small daily habits can make a big difference over time.

The Foundations of a Healthy Smile

🪥 Brush Twice a Day

Brushing morning and night with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and strengthen enamel.

Helpful brushing tips:

Brush for two full minutes
Clean along the gumline and back teeth
Use gentle circular motions rather than scrubbing

🍭 Reduce Sugar

Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

You can protect your teeth by:

Limiting sugary snacks and drinks
Drinking water regularly
Keeping sweet treats to mealtimes rather than frequent snacking

🦷 Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine check-ups help identify problems before they become painful or expensive to treat.

Regular visits allow your dental team to:

Check for early signs of decay or gum disease
Professionally clean areas brushing may miss
Provide personalised advice for your oral health

Preventive care is always the best protection for your smile.

🪥 Let’s Talk Toothbrushes

Your toothbrush is the real hero of your daily oral health routine — but it’s often overlooked.

Even the best brushing habits won’t work effectively if your toothbrush isn’t in good condition.

A few simple toothbrush tips:

✔ Manual or electric?
Both can be effective when used properly. Electric brushes can make it easier to maintain consistent pressure and reach tricky areas.

✔ Choose soft bristles
Soft bristles clean effectively while protecting your enamel and gums. Medium or hard bristles can cause irritation and wear down enamel over time.

✔ Replace regularly
Toothbrushes and electric brush heads should be replaced every 3 months — or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

✔ After illness? Swap it out
If you’ve been sick, replacing your toothbrush or brush head can help reduce the risk of reintroducing bacteria.

A worn toothbrush simply can’t do its job properly — and your smile deserves better.

If you’re unsure whether you’re using the right brush or brush head, our team is always happy to help guide you at your next visit.

A Healthy Smile at Every Age

Oral health plays an important role through every stage of life.

Children: Developing good habits early protects growing teeth.
Adults: Prevention helps maintain healthy, confident smiles.
Older adults: Ongoing care supports comfort, nutrition, and overall wellbeing.

A healthy mouth truly contributes to a happier life.

PS: Your mouth works hard every day — helping you eat, speak, smile, and laugh. Taking just a few minutes each day to care for it can make a lasting difference to your health and happiness.

📅 Book Your Next Check-Up

If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, World Oral Health Day is the perfect reminder to check in on your smile.

The team at Absolute Dental Care is here to help you protect, maintain, and love your smile for life.

📞 Book your appointment today on 3870 1300 or online.

Protecting Your Smile — Sports, Grinding, and Dental Emergencies

Steph Shepherd February 18, 2026

Your smile is with you for life — and protecting it early can help prevent unnecessary pain, stress, and costly dental treatment later.

This month, we’re sharing practical advice from our most-read blogs on mouthguards, teeth grinding, night splints, and dental emergencies, so you know how to protect your teeth in everyday situations.

🏉 Dental Protection for Sports

Dental injuries are one of the most common injuries seen in contact and high-impact sports — and they don’t just happen to professionals.

Sports commonly associated with dental injuries include:

Rugby, AFL, soccer, and netball
Martial arts, BJJ, boxing, and MMA
Skateboarding, BMX, and cycling
School and junior sports

A custom-made dental mouthguard helps to:

Absorb and distribute impact forces
Reduce the risk of chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth
Protect lips, gums, and jaw joints
Improve comfort, breathing, and confidence during play

Custom mouthguards are made to fit your teeth precisely — offering far better protection than store-bought options.

😬 Grinding & Clenching (Bruxism)

Many people grind or clench their teeth without realising it, especially during sleep or periods of stress.

Common signs of bruxism include:

Morning headaches or jaw pain
Tight or sore facial muscles
Tooth sensitivity
Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
Clicking or discomfort in the jaw

Over time, untreated grinding can lead to significant tooth damage and jaw issues.

🌙 Night Splints for Sleep-Time Protection

A custom night splint is designed to protect your teeth while you sleep and help reduce the effects of grinding and clenching.

Night splints can:

Act as a protective barrier between teeth
Reduce tooth wear and fractures
Help relieve jaw and muscle tension
Protect existing dental work such as crowns and fillings

Because they are custom-fitted, dentist-made splints are more comfortable, effective, and durable than over-the-counter alternatives.

🚑 Managing Dental Emergencies

Dental injuries from falls, sports, or accidents can be frightening — but knowing what to do can make a big difference.

If a tooth is chipped, cracked, or knocked out:

Stay calm and act quickly
Avoid touching the root of the tooth
Keep the tooth moist (milk or saliva if possible)
Contact your practice as soon as possible

Prompt dental care can significantly improve the chances of saving the tooth and preventing complications.

Keep Your Smile Sweet this Easter: Dental Care Tips You Need To Know

Steph Shepherd April 16, 2025

Keep Your Smile Sweet This Easter: Dental Care Tips You Need to Know! 🐰

Easter is all about fun, family, and of course—delicious treats! From chocolate bunnies to jelly beans, it’s easy to go a little overboard on the sugar. But while your taste buds might be celebrating, your teeth could be in for a sugary shock!

Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you covered with some fun and easy ways to enjoy Easter while keeping your smile bright and healthy! 😁

1. Choose Chocolate Wisely 🍫

If you’re indulging in chocolate (because let’s be real—who isn’t?), go for dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Dark chocolate has less sugar, melts quickly, and doesn’t stick to your teeth as much. Plus, it’s full of antioxidants. A win-win!

2. Beware of Sticky & Gummy Treats 🍬

Those colorful jelly beans and chewy caramel eggs may look harmless, but they can stick to your teeth and linger long after the fun is over. Sticky candies give cavity-causing bacteria extra time to wreak havoc, so enjoy them in moderation and rinse with water afterward.

3. Hydrate Like a Bunny 🥕💦

Water is your best friend when it comes to keeping your teeth clean. After enjoying a sweet treat, drink plenty of water to help wash away sugar and acids that can lead to cavities. Bonus points if your water has fluoride for extra protection!

4. Don’t Skip Brushing & Flossing 🦷

A sugar-filled Easter means your brushing and flossing game needs to be on point! Brush at least twice a day for two minutes and don’t forget to floss to remove any candy hiding between your teeth.

5. Chew Sugar-Free Gum for a Quick Fix 🍬

If you’re on the go and can’t brush right away, chewing sugar-free gum (especially one with xylitol) can help increase saliva production and wash away food particles. Plus, it freshens your breath after all those Easter goodies!

6. Make Dental Care Fun for Kids 🎨

Got little ones? Turn Easter into a fun dental-friendly adventure: 🐰 Add a new toothbrush to their Easter basket—bonus points for one with their favorite character!
🥕 Create a “Tooth Fairy Approved” treat bag with healthier snack options.
🐣 Make brushing a game—play their favorite song while they brush for two minutes!

Easter is a time for joy and indulgence, and with these easy tips, you can keep both your sweet tooth and your actual teeth happy. Enjoy the holiday, stay mindful of sugary treats, and keep flashing that bright, beautiful smile! 😃

What are your favorite ways to balance Easter fun with healthy habits? Share in the comments below! ⬇️

Straighten Up: Why Clear Aligners Are the Invisible Hero Your Smile Needs! 😁✨

Steph Shepherd April 9, 2025

Ever dreamed of a straighter smile without the flash of metal braces? Say hello to clear aligners—your secret weapon for transforming your teeth without anyone even knowing!

How They Work (It’s Like Magic—But for Your Mouth!)

Consult & Chill: Meet with your dentist or orthodontist to see if you’re a candidate for this stealthy teeth-transforming magic.
3D Scans for the Win: High-tech scans (think futuristic dental selfies!) are taken to map out your perfect smile journey.
Custom Aligners—Just for You!: You’ll get a series of tailor-made, nearly invisible trays that gently guide your teeth into place—no metal, no problem.
Wear ‘Em Like a Pro: Pop in your aligners for 20-22 hours a day. (Yes, you can take them out for tacos and coffee! 🌮☕)
Check In & Smile On: Regular checkups to make sure everything’s moving along, literally.
Celebrate with a Retainer: Once your smile is on point, you’ll rock a retainer to keep it that way. 🎉

Why You’ll Love Them:

Super Stealth Mode: They’re practically invisible—so you can smile with confidence through the whole process. 🕵️‍♀️
Smooth Moves: No sharp metal brackets here! The smooth plastic is comfy and won’t irritate your mouth. 😌
Eat What You Want: Go ahead—enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions. Just take out your aligners and dig in!

But Here’s the Deal:

Consistency is Key: You’ve got to wear them as directed for that dream smile to happen. (But hey, no pain, no gain!)
Not Cheap: Clear aligners can cost more than traditional braces—but aren’t they worth it for that invisible edge?
Not for Every Smile: If you’ve got some major dental drama, you may still need the full-on metal experience.

So, if you’re ready to step up your smile game without flashing metal to the world, clear aligners might just be your perfect match. It’s time to get that dream smile—on the down low. 😎

Floss Like a Boss: The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Smile Fresh

Steph Shepherd November 4, 2024

Brushing is great, but if you want to take your dental game to the next level, it’s time to “Floss Like a Boss!” Flossing is like the secret sauce for a healthy, dazzling smile. But with so many options, where do you start? Here’s how to master the art of flossing and find the type that fits you best:

Pick Your Weapon of Choice

Floss isn’t one-size-fits-all. There’s a type for everyone, so choose what works best for you:

Traditional Waxed Floss: This is the classic floss that’s strong and easy to slide between tight spaces. The wax coating helps it glide smoothly without fraying.
Unwaxed Floss: If you prefer something without the coating, unwaxed floss is for you. It might make a squeaky sound when cleaning, but that just means it’s doing its job!
Dental Tape: Wider and flatter than traditional floss, dental tape is perfect for those with wider gaps between their teeth. It’s gentle and covers more surface area.
Floss Picks: These handy little tools come with a short piece of floss stretched between two prongs, making them super convenient for on-the-go flossing or for those who find traditional floss tricky to use.
Super Floss: Designed for those with braces, bridges, or wide gaps, super floss comes with stiff ends that thread easily between dental work, followed by a spongy floss that cleans effectively.
Water Flossers: If you’re into gadgets, a water flosser might be your thing. It uses a stream of water to blast away plaque and food particles. It’s like power-washing your teeth!
Eco-Friendly Floss: Want to save the planet while saving your teeth? Look for floss made from natural, biodegradable materials like silk or corn fiber.

Master the Technique

No matter which floss you choose, the technique is key. Break off about 18 inches of floss (enough to lasso a tooth!). Wind it around your middle fingers, leaving a couple of inches to work with. Gently slide it between your teeth with an up-and-down motion. When you hit the gumline, curve it into a C shape against each tooth. You’re not just cleaning—you’re polishing those pearly whites!

Be Kind to Your Gums

Your gums are sensitive, so treat them with care. Avoid snapping the floss into your gums. Instead, think of flossing like a gentle massage for your mouth. You’ll thank yourself later when your gums stay healthy and happy!

Make It a Daily Habit

Consistency is king! Floss every day, ideally before brushing, to get rid of all the hidden gunk your toothbrush can’t reach. Imagine going to bed knowing your teeth are so clean they’d squeak if you rubbed them together!

Don’t Skip the Back Teeth

Out of sight, out of mind? Not when you’re flossing like a boss! Those molars in the back need love too. Take the extra few seconds to clean them properly, and your whole mouth will thank you.

Find Your Rhythm

Some people like to floss in the morning to start the day fresh, while others prefer doing it before bed to keep night-time plaque at bay. Find a routine that works for you and stick with it. Soon, flossing will become second nature, just like brushing.

Celebrate Your Success

Every time you finish flossing, give yourself a little fist pump or smile in the mirror. You’re taking awesome care of your teeth, and that’s something to be proud of!

Flossing isn’t just about keeping your teeth clean; it’s about taking charge of your dental health and showing those teeth who’s boss. With so many flossing options, there’s no excuse not to find the one that’s right for you. Keep up the good work, and your smile will stay bright, healthy, and ready to take on the world

Top 10 Teeth Crackers: Protecting Your Smile During the Festive Season and Beyond

Paul Rollason January 29, 2024

During the festive season, we often indulge in a variety of delightful treats and habits, but it’s important not to overlook the importance of dental health amidst the celebrations. At Absolute Dental Care, we are committed to helping our patients maintain their radiant smiles throughout the year. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 ‘teeth crackers’—common dental hazards encountered not just during the holidays but throughout the year. Our goal is to provide you with valuable advice on avoiding these dental pitfalls, ensuring that your smile stays both healthy and bright.

Pork Crackling: This holiday favourite can be tough on the back teeth. Enjoying it in moderation or opting for softer alternatives is advisable to avoid damage.
Fingernail Biting: A common habit, especially under stress, fingernail biting can lead to chipping of the front teeth. Finding stress-relief alternatives can protect the teeth.
Chewing Ice: Despite its seeming harmlessness, chewing ice is extremely hard on the teeth and can cause fractures. It’s best to avoid this habit.
Popcorn Kernels: Uncooked kernels hidden in popcorn can unexpectedly damage teeth. Being mindful while enjoying popcorn can prevent dental accidents.
Hard Nuts: Nuts can be challenging for teeth with fillings. Choosing shelled nuts or eating them cautiously is recommended.
Chewy & Hard Sweets: These sweets can stick to teeth and dental work, leading to problems. Moderation and good oral hygiene are key.
Bone Biting: Biting into bones is hard on teeth and can cause damage. Caution is advised when enjoying meaty treats.
Pen Chewing: This habit can damage front teeth. Keeping pens and other non-food items away from the mouth is a safer practice.
Stripping Wires: Using teeth as tools, such as for stripping wires, can lead to chips and fractures. It’s important to use the right tools for the job.
Ribbon Tearing: Using teeth to tear ribbons during gift unwrapping can be harmful. Scissors are a safer alternative.

Maintaining a healthy smile starts with prevention. At Absolute Dental Care, we’re not just here for dental emergencies; our mission is to help you avoid them.To learn more about protecting your teeth or to schedule a check-up, book an appointment with the team at Absolute Dental Care today.