Oral health is vital to your overall wellbeing.
On these pages we show you how easy it is to look after your oral health - including how to care for your teeth, gums and avoid unnecessary suffering.
We also highlight the support and services available to ensure you keep good oral health.
What is oral health?
“Oral health is an important part of health and wellbeing. A healthy mouth enables us to eat, speak, smile and socialise without pain, discomfort or embarrassment.
“It is an important part of health and includes teeth, gums and other soft tissues such as cheeks.” Albert Yeung, Consultant in Dental Public Health at NHS Lanarkshire.
Dental disease and dental decay cause unnecessary pain and suffering to many of us. However, they are completely preventable by following the three key messages of oral health:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste containing at least 1000ppm (parts per million) fluoride.
- Try to limit the amount and the frequency of sugar intake.
- Register with a dentist and attend regularly.
For more advice on keeping your mouth healthy, visit the top tips page.
If you are looking to register with an NHS dentist you should call NHS Lanarkshire’s General enquiry Line on 08453 130130.
Remember, check ups are now FREE for all living in Scotland who are registered with an NHS dentist so register now.