Thoughts of the 12 months gone by - Ruth, Absolute Dental

Twelve months ago I wrote down some thoughts on how I wanted to travel through the year. As 2015 draws to a close its good to take a little time to reflect and be thankful for another 365 days gone by.

We may ask ourselves if we stayed on track? Were goals reached? Did we take opportunities? Did we set ourselves challenges? And hopefully answer 'yes' to these things.

A challenge for me this year (and at times an obsession) has been Sea Swimming. Week by week and month by month and in all seasons I have dipped in the salty water as a way to clear my mind.

The challenge is definitely a mental one.Wearing Speedo swimsuit only (aka skin swimming) at times it can feel like a meditative experience to be enveloped in that chilly water. Sometimes so cold the sensation can feel like burning. Always it leaves me invigorated, ready to face my "other" challenges and feeling fortunate to be able to do it and in a such a beautiful place. With senses heightened I really hear and see all things around me.

Last week I reached my goal of 100 swims.

Ruthie x

The European Federation of Periodontology Manifesto - What it means at Absolute Dental

Absolute Dental and all the team that work under it's umbrella have been delighted to add support to the manifesto created by the European Federation of Periodontology on the vitally important subject of Periodontal and General Health.

The EFP MANIFESTO (European Federation of Periodontology) is a call to action in terms of prevention, early detection and treatment of periodontitis. It is the first formal declaration in international dentistry to condense years of research into the links between periodontal disease and systemic illnesses into an acknowledgement of periodontitis as a major public health issue.

By signing this manifesto and committing to supporting it by ways of educating our patients we join a growing community of professionals and experts who want a fundamental shift in the perception of dental professionals’ responsibilities. We embrace the mission to bring benefits from periodontal care to the general health of individuals and society, a purpose based not on the wisdom of the crowd but on strong and consistent scientific analysis.

This MANIFESTO calls upon all dental and health professionals to act in the prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of periodontal disease in order to combat the devastating oral and general health effects for the individual and society.

Over the next few weeks and months you will see many blogs and updates from the team at Absolute Dental who always work  with our patients to improve and maintain their dental health. The vital thing we now have is the scientific analysis to support the message we have long been trying to convey.

The views and intentions that we plan to express are informed by the rigorous scientific analysis of the evidence base for reported links between periodontal and systemic diseases, as carried out at the 9th European Workshop in Periodontology, an event jointly organised by the European Federation of Periodontology and the American Academy of Periodontology, and held at La Granja de San Ildefonso, Segovia, Spain.

Consensual agreement was reached by the experts at this meeting (in November 2012) that periodontal disease should be acknowledged as a major public health issue, that all dental and medical professionals should be provided with relevant treatment guidelines, and that recommendations be given for future research to help clarify these associations and their consequences in terms of primary prevention.

Our philosophy at Absolute means we are delighted to take this opportunity to collaborate with so many other like minded professionals to spread the message

Six Month Smiles at Absolute Dental

The popularity of this treatment just keep on growing.

Only today we received another review from a very delighted patient on our Facebook page who began her treatment with us earlier this year.

Short term adult orthodontics can be for everyone and there are a range of options available, if you are looking to improve the appearance of the teeth that show when you smile. Treatments times are short which makes it the perfect choice for many people..

We have two options that we generally use here at Absolute:

Six Month Smiles - This treatment it what is says on the label, great straight smile in an average time of six months. The system uses tooth coloured braces which allow the teeth to move gently and effectively move the teeth into line.

Inman Aligner - this is also a cost effective way for adults to have straight teeth and for those who require relatively simple tooth movements. The treatment work by wearing two aligners, one at the front and one at the back, which guide the teeth into their new position. Inman aligners are removable so you can take them out to eat and clean your teeth. The movement of teeth is very quick and results can usually be seen in a matter of weeks.

‘Tis The Season: How to Enjoy the Holidays Without Compromising Your Oral Health

During Christmas, I think it is fair to say we all indulge perhaps a little more than we should, and I for one am a complete advocate for a little excess during the party season. But whilst all the the drinking and dancing is in swing, sometimes we forget to take care of ourselves, and our teeth unfortunately may become particularly neglected. So, to ensure a worry free month of festivities, take a few of these tips out for a spin

1.     Force of habit: Brush your teeth!

            Did you know it takes the brain roughly thirty days to adopt a repeated behavior as a habit? If you aren’t already, begin brushing your teeth at specific times (I brush my teeth immediately before I go to bed, and immediately after I get up) so your body learns that part of going to bed/ waking up is brushing your teeth; you’ll think of it automatically. So no more excuses involving not brushing you’re teeth because you’d been out at the pub till late!

2.  Avoid pre-prepped food

            If you can, try and cook as much of the food you eat, this way you can control the sugar intake in your diet far more easily. Convenience dictates that sometimes its easier to use products that are ready-to-go, such as prepared vegetables and ready meals, but these dishes often contain staggering amounts of sugar, and if you can find the time to prepare yourself from fresh, do it. Then you can have a cheeky extra glass of wine!

3.  Straws

There’s very little point in me trying to convince anyone to drink less alcohol or fnacy exciting soft drinks at this time of year; it’s christmas and to be honest, you deserve a treat.  If you’re going to drink it, try and get a straw. This way, when you drink, the acid and sugar make virtually no contact with your pearly whites, thus preserving them through till new year in relatively tip top condition, result!

4.  Drink Plenty of water

            If you’re not hydrated, your saliva glands cannot function at maximum capacity and as a result, the pH level of the mouth is more acidic than it need be, which leads to tooth decay. Try to match every drink you have with an equal amount of water and you’ll be just fine.

5.  Have fun

            The holidays are a time when you can relax and enjoy spending time with those who are nearest and dearest to us, so remember to relax and treat yourself, and remember to use that smile this christmas - it’s the ultimate party accessory!

Merry Christmas!

Paige

 

 

Absolute Dental - Patient Survey Results

Every year we ask our lovely patients to complete an anonymous patient survey to tell us how well they feel we are doing, or if there are any aspects of our care which we could improve.

We are always pleased with our results, and this year was no exception!

The survey measures how well Absolute Dental is performing in different areas by asking patients to rate various aspects of the service they receive.

In general, our patients are between 84-99% "very satisfied" with all aspects of our service ranging from the technical skills of our dentists (98% very satisfied), our sterilisation and infection control (98% very satisfied), treatments to ensure teeth and gums stay healthy (99% very satisfied) and care from the front desk team (93% very satisfied).

It is interesting to look at our patient satisfaction scores against that national benchmark (over 1000 other practices use this survey nationwide) and see that national satisfaction rates range from 41-65%, compared to our 84-99%.

Great results, for a great team who work hard to make your visits to us as pleasant as possible.

Thank you to all of you who took the time to participate this year.

The Mouth Cancer Check at Absolute Dental

 

As part of every Dental Health Assessment, our dentists carry out a visual examination and check for the early signs of mouth cancer.  Please do talk about the examination with your dentist – they will be more than happy to talk through exactly what they are doing, where they are looking, and what they are searching for.

Here are the six basic areas your dentist will investigate during a normal Dental health Assessment:

Your dentist will look at your face and neck.  They will judge whether both sides look the same and search for any lumps, bumps or swellings that are only on one side of the face.  Your dentists will also feel and press along the sides and front of your neck – they are looking for any tenderness or lumps to the touch.

Your dentist will pull down your lower lip and look inside for any sores or change in colour.  Next, they will use their thumb and forefinger to feel the lip for lumps, bumps or changes in texture.  This will then be repeated on the upper lip.

The dentists will use their finger to pull out your cheek so that they can see inside.  They will look for red, white or dark patches.  They will then place their index finger inside your cheek, with their thumb on the outside.  They will then gently squeeze and roll the cheek to check for any lumps, tenderness or ulcers, repeating this action on the other cheek.

With your head tilted back and mouth open wide, your dentist will look to see if there are any lumps or if there is any change in colour.  They will run their finger on the roof of your mouth to feel for any lumps.

Your dentist will examine your tongue, looking at the surface for any changes in colour or texture.  They might ask you to stick out your tongue or move it from one side to another, again looking for any swelling, change in colour or ulcers.  They will also take a look at the underside of the tongue by placing the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth.

The dentist will look at the floor of the mouth for changes in colour that are different than normal.  They will gently press their finger along the floor of their mouth and underside of your tongue to feel for any lumps, swellings or ulcers.

Mouth Cancer - the Silent Killer

• More than 2,000 people lose their life to mouth cancer in the UK every year
• There are more deaths from mouth cancer than there are through road traffic accidents
• Mouth cancer also claims more lives per year than cervical and testicular cancer combined

• Although the number of mouth cancer cases have increased steadily over the last decade, more people are being treated successfully and living for longer
• Early detection for mouth cancer results in a survival outcome of 90%….
• However, delayed diagnosis means survival rates plummet to as little as 50%

Our dentists carry out a Mouth Cancer check at every Dental Health Assessment.

 

 

Six Month Smiles - One month on.......

A smile is a curve that sets everything straight- and speaking of straight... I am one month into my Six Month Smile treatment at Absolute Dental, and I am ecstatic with the results in such a short time period!

The treatment is definitely proving to be worth it, despite my initial reluctance to resist all coloured food, and I am optimistic my brace will be off for Christmas - much earlier than originally expected!

Orthodontic horror stories are definitely irrelevant with this special brace; as I have experienced no pain at all during my second wire, and I am completely elated with my result so far.

Most importantly, my lisp has ceased to manifest, therefore allowing me to be entirely happy with my new smile. Of course I would strongly suggest anyone with the slightest interest, to enquire about a 6MS, and ask the lovely team at Absolute how to transform your pearly whites!

IJ

Your mouth - A window on your general health.

Did you know that your dental health can offer clues about your overall health? Or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body? Here at Absolute Dental, our dentists, hygienists and therapists are trying to help you understand this intimate connection.What's the connection between dental health and overall health?

Like it or not, our mouths are full of bacteria — but relax, most of them are harmless. Normally the body's immune system and good oral health care, such as twice daily brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing, can keep these bacteria under control. However, harmful bacteria can sometimes grow out of control and cause oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Also, some dental procedures, medications, or treatments that reduce saliva flow, can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your mouth.

Your dental health may affect/be affected by or contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:

Endocarditis. Gum disease and certain dental procedures may allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If you have a weak immune system or a damaged heart valve, this can cause infection in other parts of the body — such as an infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis).

Cardiovascular disease. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to oral bacteria, possibly due to chronic inflammation from a severe form of gum disease.

Pregnancy and birth. Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Diabetes. Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection — putting the gums at risk. In addition, people who have inadequate blood sugar control may develop more frequent and severe infections of the gums and the bone that holds teeth in place, leading to tooth loss.

Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis — which causes bones to become weak and brittle — may be associated with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.

Alzheimer's disease. Tooth loss before age 35 may be a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease.
Other conditions. Other conditions that may be linked to oral health include Sjogren's syndrome — an immune system disorder — and eating disorders.

Absolute Dental will regularly ask you to complete a medical update to check if there are any changes to your general well-being since your last visit and you should let us know if you have been diagnosed with a chronic condition or are taking regular medication.

Good oral health can be promoted by:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
• Floss daily.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Schedule regular dental health assessments
• Also, watch for signs and symptoms of oral disease and contact your dentist as soon as a problem arises. Remember, taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.

Mouth Cancer - The Risk Factors

The Risk Factors

• Two thirds of mouth cancer cases are linked to smoking tobacco
• A morning cigarette doubles the chances of developing the disease
• Smokers put themselves at almost three times higher risk
• …but cigars and pipe smokers put themselves at greater risk
• Ex-smokers reduce their risk by a third
• Second-hand smoke significantly increases the risk for those who have never smoked
• Smokeless tobacco use can increase the risk of developing mouth cancer by 15 times
• Drinking alcohol to excess is linked to around a third of all cases
• Those who smoke and drink to excess put themselves at risk by up to 30 times
• More than half of cases in the UK are linked to a poor diet
• Solar radiation from the sun has been linked to cancer of the lip
• The human papillomavirus (HPV) is estimated to overtake smoking as the number one cause of mouth cancers in the future
• Mouth cancer is 2.5 times higher in those with periodontal disease
• …and is 60 times higher in people with six or more missing teeth
• Mouth cancer is 12 to 16 times higher in those who have previous been diagnosed with cancer
• Mouth cancer is 70% more common in those whose family have a history of the disease

Our Dentists carry out a Lifestyle and Risk Assessment at every Dental Health Assessment to ensure any risk factors are identified and then we can help you make healthier lifestyle choices instead.

Is Sugar the Enemy?

Is Sugar Our Enemy?

You may have seen the recent documentary by Jamie Oliver on Channel 4, entitled ‘Jamie’s Sugar Rush’, and if you haven’t, I really would recommend going online and watching it on demand. It’s not often you see such shocking images of diet related disease, and as it transpires, we are all potentially under threat if we remain ignorant as to what sugar actually does to our bodies.

In the program, the TV chef explains how there are fundamentally two types of sugars we consume, ‘naturally occurring sugars’ as found in fruit and dairy, and so-called ‘free sugars’, sugars added to foods, as well as those that occur in honey, syrups, fruit concentrates and fruit juices. These sugars are the potentially dangerous ones, and we all know this. So, why is it, that despite the fact many of us do consider what we eat, that sugar is still causing such widespread health problems? Why is it Children as young as two or three are having to undergo major operations under general anesthetic to remove tooth decay, that was easily avoidable in the first place? Why are seven thousand people per year in the UK having major amputations to remove gangrenous ulcers, caused by type two diabetes? The answer lies in the hidden sugar, and If you watch the documentary, there is some very valuable revelatory information about how free sugars are present in large quantities, in foods that we would perhaps ignorantly consider to be good for us, such as cereal, fresh fruit juice, and ready meals to name a few.

Overall, the documentary highlights sugar as being potentially lethal, and it is no exaggeration. However, sugar is an essential part of our diet, and the sugar found in fresh fruit and dairy products is essential for cell function - we could not survive without this sugar. But the threat of sugar related diseases is increasing, and educating the public as to the harm we are doing to ourselves is of the utmost importance. I encourage you, if you haver not already, to watch the documentary, or have a look around Jamie Oliver’s website, where there is plenty of information on how to cut down on free sugars and potentially save yourself from developing an easily avoided terminal disease - prevention is always better than cure.

http://www.jamieoliver.com/sugar-rush

Paige

Key Facts about Mouth Cancer

Key Facts about Mouth Cancer

• Latest figures show that in 2011, there were 6,767 people diagnosed with mouth cancer in the UK
• That’s 18 people every day – one person diagnosed every 77 minutes
• Mouth cancer cases have increased by a third in the last decade…
• …and it is one of few cancers that experts predict will continue to increase in the coming years
• Mouth cancer is ranked the 16^th most common cancer in the UK
• The lifetime risk of developing mouth cancer is 1 in 84 for men and 1 in 160 for women
• Cancer of the tongue and oral cavity are the most common forms of mouth cancer, followed then by the throat.  Lip, neck and other mouth cancers make up the rest of cases

Who Does it Effect?

• Mouth cancer is twice as common in men than women
• 86% of cases are diagnosed in those over 50
• Mouth cancer rates per population are significantly higher in Scotland compared with England, Northern Ireland and Wales
• Rates are much higher in white males, however those in Asian males are similar
• More than 90% of mouth cancers in men and 85% in women are linked to lifestyle and environmental factors

Our dentists carry out a Mouth Cancer Check at every Dental Health Assessment and look for any changes in your mouth every time we see you.

Mouth Cancer Action Month - What is Mouth Cancer?

What is Mouth Cancer?

Most people have heard of cancer affecting parts of the body such as the lungs or breasts. However, cancer can also occur in the mouth, where the disease can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat.

Anyone can be affected by mouth cancer, whether they have their own teeth or not. Mouth cancers are more common in people over 40, particularly men. However, research has shown that mouth cancer is becoming more common in younger patients and in women. In the last year 6,767 have been diagnosed with mouth cancer in the UK – an increase of more than a third compared to a decade ago.

Sadly, more than 1,800 people in the UK lose their life to mouth cancer every year. Many of these deaths could be prevented if the cancer was caught early enough. As it is, people with mouth cancer are more likely to die than those having cervical cancer or melanoma skin cancer.

Most cases of mouth cancer are linked to tobacco and alcohol. Cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking are the main forms of tobacco use in the UK. However, the traditional ethnic habits of chewing tobacco, betel quid, gutkha and paan are particularly dangerous.

Alcohol increases the risk of mouth cancer, and if tobacco and alcohol are consumed together the risk is even greater. Over-exposure to sunlight can also increase the risk of cancer of the lips.

Many recent reports have linked mouth cancer to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the major cause of cervical cancer and affects the skin that lines the moist areas of the body. HPV can be spread through oral sex, and research now suggests that it could soon rival smoking and drinking as one of the main causes of mouth cancer. Practicing safe sex and limiting the number of partners you have may help reduce your chances of contracting HPV.

Mouth cancer can appear in different forms and can affect all parts of the mouth, tongue and lips.

Mouth cancer can appear as a painless mouth ulcer that does not heal normally. A white or red patch in the mouth can also develop into a cancer. It is important to visit your dentist if these areas do not heal within three weeks.

Mouth cancer can often be spotted in its early stages by your dentist during a thorough mouth examination. If mouth cancer is recognised early, then the chances of a cure are good.  Many people with mouth cancer go to their dentist or doctor too late.

The dentist examines the inside of your mouth and your tongue with the help of a small mirror. Remember, your dentist is able to see parts of your mouth that you cannot see easily yourself.

If your dentist finds something unusual they will refer you to a consultant at the local hospital, who will carry out a thorough examination of your mouth and throat. A small sample of the cells may be gathered from the area (a biopsy), and these cells will be examined under the microscope to see what is wrong.

If the cells are cancerous, more tests will be carried out. These may include overall health checks, blood tests, x-rays or scans. These tests will decide what course of treatment is needed.

If mouth cancer is spotted early, the chances of a complete cure are good, and the smaller the area or ulcer the better the chance of a cure.

However, too many people come forward too late, because they do not visit their dentist for regular examinations.

It is important to visit your dentist regularly, as often as they recommend, even if you wear dentures. This is especially important if you smoke and drink alcohol.

When brushing your teeth, look out for any changes in your mouth, and report any red or white patches, or ulcers, that have not cleared up within three weeks.

When exposed to the sun, be sure to use a good protective sun cream, and put the correct type of barrier cream on your lips.

A good diet, rich in vitamins A, C and E, provides protection against the development of mouth cancer.  Plenty of fruit and vegetables help the body to protect itself, in general, from most cancers.

Cut down on your smoking and drinking.

My first few weeks at Absolute Dental

I have really enjoyed my first few weeks at Absolute Dental. The team have been so supportive and welcoming, it has been great getting to know them as they are all such amazing people. 

I have learnt so much already and I love that there is never a day that I don't find out something new and interesting. 

Watching treatments take place has been brilliant, I especially enjoy seeing the progress of our Six Month Smile patients as the change to the appearance of their teeth is just incredible! 

But by far the greatest thing about Absolute is how much everyone truly cares about the patients that come through the door. Watching patients leave after their treatment so happy and often more confident is very rewarding. I would recommend Absolute to everyone! 

Pippa

Diary of my Six Month Smile treatment at Absolute Dental - Week 1

Week 1

"Cover your mouth when you cough, and never when you smile" - this is the small motto I shall be living by for the next 6 months during my Six Month Smile treatment at Absolute Dental.

I had my brace fitted three days ago now, and despite initially feeling as though my teeth did not fit in my mouth, I am incredibly grateful to find out that the horror stories about arduous and agonising pain when one has a brace fitted are not true!

These smart alloy braces are just that little bit 'kinder' to our pearly whites, making the whole process of getting that Hollywood smile a tad more harmonious.

I can't wait to see what my dentist, Dr John has up his sleeve for my new smile, and I am optimistic that the end result will counterfeit the humiliation of the numerous lisping jokes I have been exposed to over the past 36 hours.......

IJ

My First Few Weeks at Absolute Dental

My first few weeks at Absolute Dental have been amazing. Not only have I made some great new friends but they have really made me feel part of the team and I have learnt so much already.

I have especially enjoyed watching dental implant placements and seeing the smile on patients faces once their treatment is complete.

I personally have had some bad experiences in the past with dental treatments at other practices and although I wasn't nervous about nursing for other people's treatments, when it came to my turn to sit in the chair and have treatment I did become nervous, but I can honestly say Dr John made me feel so at ease.

I had to have an anaesthetic injection and where these have been painful in the past....I didn't feel a thing! Magic!

I would recommend Absolute Dental to all my friends and family, not only because I work there but because the whole team makes everyone feel so welcome and like you are the only person that matters.

Gemma.

Absolute Dental goes to Cambodia!

In February I will be travelling to Cambodia with the charity Dentaid as part of a dental team to provide much-needed dental care and education.

 

I am really looking forward to my trip, but I am aware that it will be like nothing I have experienced before. I will only meet my fellow volunteers just before we leave for Cambodia, and during my time there I will be living with a local family and experiencing life as they do.

 

The dental clinics we will be working in will be so very different to the facilities I am lucky enough to have at Absolute Dental, but this is one of the reasons I am going! Although the facilities will be very different, I hope that the knowledge and expertise we take over there, will really make a difference to the communities we will be working in. If we can make a lasting difference to just one family whilst there, I will feel my trip will have been worthwhile. Stories from previous volunteers fill me with pride in my profession as a dental nurse, and I can't wait to be part of such a potentially life changing mission - for all involved!

 

As Dentaid is a charity, we as volunteers have to fund ourselves regarding travel costs and admin fees, and therefore I have been very busy thinking of ways in which I can raise these vital funds.

 

I have a sponsor form in the practice, and our patients have been very generous so far, and for this I am very grateful, but there is still a long way to go.

To help raise funds for this mission I will be hosting a pub quiz night on Monday 21st December at the Creeks End in Kingsbridge, (huge thanks to Terry and his team for letting me take over the pub!)this quiz will start at 7.30pm, teams of up to 4 people, £5 entry per team. Please come along for a fun evening with some lovely prizes (again, HUGE thanks to Terry for these too!)! 

In addition I will also be holding a sponsored coastal walk in January (winter storms permitting!); we plan to walk from Salcombe around to Bantham and hope that we can get sponsorship before we go, and maybe even along the way! The date for this is yet to be confirmed.

And finally Absolute dental will be holding a bake sale on Friday 23rd October - come in and enjoy a slice of homemade cake and a cup of coffee - all proceeds will be going towards Dentaid.

 

Carys

Beware of student lifestyle risks to dental health!

Students who binge drink are more likely to forget to brush their teeth before going to bed, a survey has found.

The study published in The Journey of Periodontal Research looked at the gum health of over 800 students and found those drinking large quantities of alcohol were more likely  to miss brushing their teeth, resulting in a higher incidence of gum disease.

The study suggested that students often feel the affects of excessive alcohol on their general health (especially the morning after!), but overlook the harmful effects it can have on their dental health. As the new university year starts, and there are many cheap alcohol deals on for students, excessive drinking can be a frequent occurrence. But forgetting to brush your teeth before falling into bed after a night out can lead to some serious problems for their teeth.

One of the main threats to dental health from excessive drinking is the amount of sugar in alcohol. It can also cause dehydration, leading to a dry mouth meaning less saliva to buffer the sugar from the teeth.

So, advice for students, or loved ones at university to ensure they can concentrate on their studies and not in the dentists chair:

1. Avoid high sugar mixers - or choose a low calorie alternative
2. Use a straw to minimise the amount of time the drink is in contact with the teeth - offering protection from decay and acid erosion
3. Brush teeth at least an hour after your last drink to allow enamel to re-mineralise and prevent brushing away loosened particles
   

Making A Good First Impression: Start With A Smile

When I began university in September, I felt fairly comfortable that it would not be long before I met some great new people and formed fantastic new friendships, because having moved schools a few more times than most, I am quite used to introducing myself to new people, and feel relaxed meeting individuals for the first time; these situations are never normally uncomfortable for me.

 

However, during my first few weeks here, it became apparent to me that not everybody is lucky enough to have the confidence I have when introducing myself and forging friendships. Often it seems when we are put into a new situation that requires us to meet new people, or talk to somebody we do not know, we find ourselves feeling uncomfortable and unable to convey our thoughts and feelings in a way that our counterpart will understand, simply because it is difficult forming a relationship so instantaneously.

 

Personally, I believe that the only logical place to start, is with a smile. A smile is a universal symbol of happiness, warmth, and invitation. A smile, much like exercise, triggers the release of endorphins, which in turn, makes you feel happier, conveying the positive impression of happiness to you peers - everyone wants to be around happy positive people.

 

Smiling also brings many health benefits, such as reducing anxiety, which really aids you if you become nervous when meeting new people. Trust me, smiling will make you feel a little more at ease in a stressful situation. Furthermore, smiling has been scientifically proven to lower your blood pressure - and who doesn’t want that? Lastly, smiling is contagious. It’s true what they say, ‘Smile and the whole world smiles with you’; your smile makes others smile too, as mirror neurons in your brain subconsciously urge you to reciprocate the expression when somebody else smiles, and just like that, you have a room full of bright, happy, engaging individuals.

I know that every smile I cracked as I introduced myself helped give a positive and balanced first impression of myself, and that the friends I have made so far felt the benefit of that. Smiling will help you in any new situation, be it going for an interview, starting a new job, or any of your daily interactions with other human beings. Try it next time you interact with a sales assistant who seems a little moody, or a bus driver who’s on the night shift. You never know, you might just transform somebody’s day.

Paige John

Is sugar the new tobacco?

Once upon a time, smoking was considered the epitome of cool and lighting up indoors was the norm. But, as the health risks of tobacco become better understood, the number of smokers in the UK has fallen to an all-time low. So, could consuming too much sugar hold the same stigma in the future as smoking does now?

Leading public health experts would certainly like to think so. With recent initiatives, such as a ban on cigarettes from shop displays, having an impact, health chiefs have turned their attention to sugar.

A series of television advertisements from public health initiative Change4Life is being broadcast with a message about cutting down the amount of sugar in children’s diets. An animated modelling clay family shows how swapping fizzy drinks for water or eating low-sugar yoghurt instead of ice-cream can make a huge impact on sugar consumption. And, while food containing a high percentage of sugar isn’t hidden from view in the same way cigarettes are, some of the country’s major supermarkets, including Tesco and Lidl, have removed sweets and chocolates from check-outs to make it easier for parents to make healthy eating choices for their children.

When you consider the effects of obesity, it’s hardly surprising that the public health drive has stepped up a notch. NHS chief executive Simon Stevens told the Public Health England annual conference:
“Obesity is the new smoking. It represents a slow-motion car crash in terms of avoidable illness and rising health care costs. “If, as a nation, we keep piling on the pounds around the waistline, we’ll be piling on the pounds in terms of future taxes needed just to keep the NHS afloat.”

As well, of course, as the negative impact on the waistlines of a nation, too much sugar can have a very detrimental effect on our teeth. Sugar causes decay because the bacteria in your mouth use it as an energy source and acid is formed as a by-product of this, which can lead to cavities. Once enamel becomes eroded, teeth lose their natural protection and are more prone to staining.

According to statistics for the last financial year, almost 26,000 primary school children were treated for tooth decay, making it the most common reason youngsters were admitted to hospital during 2013/14. In the worst cases, dentists reported having to remove all 20 of some children’s baby teeth. Graham Barnby, honorary vice-president of the British Dental Health Foundation said the issue was caused by the “consumption of sugary, fizzy drinks.”

Television presenter Davina McCall has also thrust the amount of sugar we eat into the limelight by cutting refined sugar from her diet. Davina, who fronts shows including The Jump and Long Lost Family, revealed she had been “horrifically addicted” to sugar but started a sugar-free diet when her sister was advised to reduce her own intake following a cancer diagnosis. Sadly, her sister lost her cancer battle, but Davina has continued to pursue a healthier food philosophy.

“The benefits of cutting out sugar are ridiculous,” she said in an interview earlier this year.
Perhaps then, in the future, those who drink fizzy drinks or eat sugary snacks will find themselves on the receiving end of the same sort of social stigma as smokers experience now.

Matthew Lloyd, Dentist and Clinical Director at WhiteWash Laboratories

Tooth Brush your way to a healthier heart!

It may surprise you to know that brushing your teeth and keeping your mouth healthy could actually save your life.

Many people aren’t aware that gum disease can increase your risk of all kinds of other health complications, including heart disease and heart attacks, with only one in three adults aware of the dangerous link.

Gum disease can essentially be stopped by using the correct brushing and flossing routine, but is estimated to affect more than half of all adults in the UK. The Children’s Dental Health Survey for England has found nearly half of eight-year-olds and a third of five-year-olds have signs of decay in their milk teeth too, caused by poor brushing and diet, which is a rather depressing finding.

Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by a build-up of plaque bacteria on the teeth, these bacteria use the food and drink we eat to produce acids which cause tooth decay and the bacteria also irritates the gums causing them to bleed. Some bacteria in plaque are harmless, but some are extremely harmful for the gums and, if not removed by following a good oral hygiene routine, will build up and irritate your gums.

Symptoms of early onset gum disease or ‘gingivitis’ to look out for include red, sore and swollen gums and bleeding gums after brushing or flossing. As gum disease progresses, the tissues and bone that support the teeth can also become affected and can cause bad breath, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, loose teeth and potentially gum abscesses.

However, you may not have any symptoms, which makes those regular trips to the dentist all the more important.

So, what has this got to do with your heart? Intense gum inflammation can affect the bloodstream and is believed to slowly damage blood vessels in the heart and brain over a long period of time and, scientists believe, bacteria entering the bloodstream via the gums deposit a clot-forming protein. This can increase the risk of a heart attack in a number of ways, as inflamed blood vessels and blockages allow less blood to travel between the heart and the rest of the body, raising blood pressure. There’s also an increased risk that fatty plaque will break away from the wall of a blood vessel and travel to the heart or the brain, potentially causing a heart attack or stroke.

A recent study conducted by the European Society of Cardiology of more than 15,000 patients with chronic coronary heart disease found that indicators of gum disease, such as missing teeth and bleeding gums, were common and associated with numerous cardiovascular and socioeconomic risk factors.

On the other hand, a lower prevalence of tooth loss was associated with lower levels of heart disease risk factors, including lower blood glucose levels, systolic blood pressure and waist circumference.

Smoking and having a poor diet are known contributing factors to serious health issues such as diabetes or heart disease and are also linked to poor dental hygiene.
However, it’s not just heart disease that gum disease has close links to; it’s also associated with osteoporosis, stroke, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

So how can you prevent or treat gum disease? It’s vital that you follow a good oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing your teeth correctly for at least two minutes twice a day, cleaning between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes, using a mouthwash, visiting your dentist and dental hygienist regularly and following dietary advice, which can help to improve your overall health and reduce your risk of serious health problems.
 
Next time you pick up your toothbrush, remember that it’s not just a tool for achieving the perfect smile, but could help to save your life.
 
Matthew Lloyd, Dentist and Clinical Director of WhiteWash Laboratories

How much sugar is too much?

With all the chat around sugar, we want to help you understand exactly how sugar is classified, how much you should be consuming, and how to work out the amount of sugar there is in different foods and drinks, to help you reduce your intake.

What is Sugar?

Sugar is classed in two ways:

1.   FREE SUGARS – sugar added to food and drink (even food like soup, yogurt and crisps), as well as sugar found naturally in honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit juice concentrates

2.   NATURALLY OCCURRING SUGARS – found in fruit and milk

How much sugar should we consume?

In the UK, there are lots of figures out there so it can get confusing. Let’s break it down:

·     The reference intake – the Government’s guideline daily amount – for sugar is a maximum of 90g per day for the average adult, but they don’t provide specific guidelines for children. Also worth noting is that this figure covers both naturally occurring and free sugars, so use the Government’s Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) recommendations to understand your free sugar consumption

·    The SACN gives guidance on the consumption of free sugars. They recommend that our daily intake should be less than 5% of our total energy intake. So what does that really mean?  

·   Children aged 4 to 6 should have no more than 19g or 5 teaspoons of free sugars per day

·   Children aged 7 to 10 should have no more than 24g or 6 teaspoons of free sugars per day

  

·   Children aged 11 years and upwards, as well as adults, should have no more than 30g or 7 teaspoons of free sugar per day

To put this into perspective, a typical 330ml can of fizzy drink can contain up to 35g or 9 teaspoons of free sugar.

How much sugar is there in our food and drink?

Sugar is added to all sorts of foods and drinks to make them taste sweet or to preserve their flavour. And it’s not just found in products you’d expect, such as cakes, biscuits, fizzy drinks and desserts. You’ll also find it in things like baked beans, bread and cereal. So, make sure you check the ingredients list on the label so you know how much sugar a product contains.

Things to look out for:

·     Added sugar or free sugars – the ones we want to cut down on – aren’t always labelled as sugar, so can be tricky to spot. The following are all sugars: agave nectar, corn sweetener, dextrose, honey, corn syrup, sucrose, fructose, glucose and molasses. Make sure you read the labels

·     Food labels list the ingredients in descending order, so in general the higher sugar appears in the list, the more that product contains

·     For extra clarity, use the nutritional information panel on the back of the pack. Sugar is listed as ‘of which sugars’ and is the total sugar content per serving and/or per 100g. But, this figure doesn’t distinguish between naturally occurring sugars and free sugars, so read the ingredients list too to give yourself an idea of whether there are likely to be any naturally occurring sugars in that product

·     In the UK, many food and drink manufacturers now use traffic light labeling on front of pack as well, signposting key nutrient values – including sugar, saturated fat and salt – as green, amber or red (low, medium or high). Use this information to educate yourself. As a general rule, most of the time you should aim to choose food and drinks that are mainly green and amber across all values, not just sugar!

 

SUGAR & YOUR HEALTH

The reality is that consuming too much sugar will have a detrimental effect on your health.

·     Sugar provides the body with empty calories that give us energy without any nutrients. As a result, we eat more without feeling full or satisfied. This leads to an increased risk of weight gain, certain diseases, and a cycle of highs and lows in  energy levels, which will leave you feeling tired and craving even more sugar.

·     Frequent consumption can lead to tooth decay. A report by the Royal College of Surgeons published earlier this year showed tooth decay to be the most common reason 5-9 year olds were admitted to hospital

·     It can also lead to type-2 diabetes, the levels of which have risen dramatically in recent years. Being overweight or obese also increases your risk of developing the disease. Diabetes UK reports that there are currently 3.3 million people in the UK living with diabetes, and many of these cases are type-2

 

WHAT TO REMEMBER

The key thing to remember is that overall, eating healthily is all about balance. Indulgent foods, such as those high in fat and/or sugar, can be enjoyed and savoured, but only occasionally, not every day. The majority of our diet should be made up of balanced, nutritious everyday foods.