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  1. Oral health information
  2. A-Z oral health information

A-Z oral health information

Welcome to our A-Z list of oral health information. You can also view this information grouped by topic:

  • Prevention and advice
  • Mouth problems
  • Treatments and procedures
Bad Breath

Bad Breath

Bad breath is a very common problem that a lot of us are scared to address, but sometimes the solution can be very simple. Read more

Published: 23rd February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Bridges and partial dentures

Bridges and partial dentures

These replacement options for missing teeth are often recommended for oral health purposes as well as cosmetic appearance. Read more

Published: 22nd February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Burning mouth syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome

Burning Mouth Syndrome can be an extremely uncomfortable condition which can have several potential causes. Read more

Published: 21st February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Children's teeth

Children's teeth

Getting the younger members of the family into good oral health habits early can make them much easier to maintain in the future. Read more

Published: 19th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Caring for my teeth and gums

Caring for my teeth and gums

A healthy smile can be a great asset and it is because of this that it makes sense to give your teeth the best care possible. Read more

Published: 19th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Cold sores

Cold sores

A cold sore is a small, painful, raised area of small, fluid-filled blisters which usually last for between five and seven days. Read more

Published: 18th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Cosmetic treatment

Cosmetic treatment

A visit to the dentist is not just about a check-up or a filling. Many are now turning to cosmetic dentistry to improve their appearance. Read more

Published: 17th February, 2017

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Cracked teeth

Cracked teeth

There are several ways in which your tooth can crack or break and it is important that you get it seen to as soon as possible. Read more

Published: 16th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Crowns

Crowns

An ideal way to repair teeth that have been broken, a crown (or 'cap') would fit over the remaining part of a tooth. Read more

Published: 15th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Dental care for mother and baby

Dental care for mother and baby

It is important that a mother looks after the oral health of her baby and also that of herself, especially during pregnancy. Read more

Published: 14th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Dental care for older people

Dental care for older people

With the right home care, day-to-day oral health routine and help from your dental team, it is possible to keep your teeth for life. Read more

Published: 13th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Dental care for people with special needs

Dental care for people with special needs

Everyone deserves and needs quality dental care. However, some people need special facilities or services to have this care provided. Read more

Published: 12th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Dental decay

Dental decay

Dental decay occurs when the enamel and dentine of a tooth become softened by acid attack after you have consumed sugars. Read more

Published: 11th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Dental erosion

Dental erosion

Dental erosion is the loss of tooth enamel caused by acid attack. When the enamel has worn away, it can lead to pain and sensitivity. Read more

Published: 10th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Dental visits for LGBTQ+ people

Dental visits for LGBTQ+ people

Created with the help of the LGBT Foundation, here is some advice for LGBT people about oral health and seeing the dentist. Read more

Published: 9th February, 2017

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Dentures

Dentures

People wear dentures, plastic or metal, to replace lost or missing teeth so they can enjoy a healthy diet and smile with confidence. Read more

Published: 7th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd August, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Diet and my teeth

Diet and my teeth

To reduce tooth decay, it is important to have sugary foods or drinks just at mealtimes, limiting the time your mouth is at risk. Read more

Published: 6th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Different filling materials

Different filling materials

There are a number of different fillings, including: amalgam, composite, glass ionomer, gold inlays and onlays, and porcelain inlays. Read more

Published: 5th February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Dry mouth

Dry mouth

Dry mouth is a condition which affects the flow of saliva, causing your mouth to feel dry. There are several possible causes. Read more

Published: 4th February, 2017

Updated: 22nd March, 2023

Author:

Drugs, alcohol and your oral health

Drugs, alcohol and your oral health

Drinking alcohol and taking drugs can have an adverse affect on the health of your teeth and gums. Read more

Published: 3rd February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Fluoride

Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural mineral that is found in many foods and in all drinking water, the amount of which varies from area to area. Read more

Published: 3rd February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Geographic tongue

Geographic tongue

Geographic tongue is a common condition which can appear on the top and sides of the tongue, and sometimes on the under-surface. Read more

Published: 2nd February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Gum disease

Gum disease

Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontal disease) is swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. Read more

Published: 1st February, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Healthy gums and healthy body

Healthy gums and healthy body

Some of the many problems which may be caused or made worse by poor dental health include heart disease, strokes and diabetes. Read more

Published: 31st January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

The human papillomavirus (HPV)

The human papillomavirus (HPV)

Learn about the human papillomavirus (HPV) and the UK's vaccination programme. Read more

Published: 30th January, 2017

Updated: 12th December, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Implants

Implants

A dental implant is used to support one or more false teeth. It is a titanium screw that can replace the root of a tooth when it fails. Read more

Published: 30th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Jaw problems and headaches

Jaw problems and headaches

If you jaw and teeth are not lined up correctly it will not only affect your bite but could result in severe headaches and jaw pain. Read more

Published: 29th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Knocked out teeth

Knocked out teeth

There are several reasons why a tooth may be knocked out but it is important to know what to do and where to go when it happens. Read more

Published: 28th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Lichen planus

Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a disease which can affect the mouth and other areas of the body. Symptoms include white patches on the inside of cheeks. Read more

Published: 27th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Living with my brace

Living with my brace

From speaking to eating, playing sports as well as musical instruments, we give you easy-to-follow advice on living with your brace. Read more

Published: 26th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Medical conditions and oral health

Medical conditions and oral health

By speaking to your dentist about any pre-existing conditions you have, it will allow them to treat you in the safest way possible. Read more

Published: 25th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Mouth cancer

Mouth cancer

Most people have heard of cancer affecting parts of the body but it can also appear in the mouth, lips, head and neck. Read more

Published: 24th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Mouthguards

Mouthguards

A mouthguard is a specially made, rubber-like cover which fits over your teeth and gums, protecting them from injury when playing a sport. Read more

Published: 23rd January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Mouth ulcers

Mouth ulcers

Usually red or yellow in colour, mouth ulcers are painful sores that can appear inside the mouth and also on the outer lips. Read more

Published: 22nd January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

My fear of the dentist

My fear of the dentist

Dental anxiety is quite common but the good news is that more and more dentists now understand their patients' fears. Read more

Published: 21st January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

My teeth

My teeth

Your teeth have so many uses. They help you to cut up and chew your food, help you to talk and also give your face its shape. Read more

Published: 20th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Oral care products

Oral care products

From toothbrush to mouthwash, interdental brushes to tongue cleaners, we answer all your questions about a variety of oral health products. Read more

Published: 19th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the teeth and how they work. Read more

Published: 18th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: George Bushell

Paying for dental treatment in the UK

Paying for dental treatment in the UK

Learn about the differences between being an NHS and private patient, along with the most common forms of payment. Read more

Published: 16th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Pit and fissure sealants

Pit and fissure sealants

A sealant is a protective plastic coating applied as a safe and painless way of protecting your teeth and your children's from tooth decay. Read more

Published: 16th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Preventive care and oral hygiene

Preventive care and oral hygiene

Preventive dentistry is the modern way of helping you keep a healthy mouth and means you need to have less dental treatment. Read more

Published: 15th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Relaxation and sedation

Relaxation and sedation

If you have anxiety about the dentist or dental treatment, you can help overcome your fears with relaxation or sedation. Read more

Published: 14th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Root canal treatment

Root canal treatment

Root canal treatment is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth is infected through tooth decay or other injury. Read more

Published: 13th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Sensitive teeth

Sensitive teeth

Having sensitive teeth can mean anything from getting a mild twinge to having severe discomfort that can continue for several hours. Read more

Published: 12th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Smokeless tobacco

Smokeless tobacco

Smokeless tobacco can harm both your oral health and overall health by increasing the risk of mouth cancer, heart disease and strokes. Read more

Published: 11th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Smoking and oral health

Smoking and oral health

Smoking cannot only damage your general health, it can also have serious consequences for the mouth, gums and teeth. Read more

Published: 10th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Sugar free chewing gum

Sugar free chewing gum

Chewing sugar-free gum helps protect your teeth and gums in between meals when it may not be possible to brush with a toothbrush. Read more

Published: 9th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Teens' teeth

Teens' teeth

A healthy smile is important for meeting people and making friends. It can also boost confidence, helping you feel good about yourself. Read more

Published: 8th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Tooth whitening

Tooth whitening

Tooth whitening can be a very effective way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surface. Read more

Published: 7th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Veneers

Veneers

A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth and can improve the colour, shape and position of your teeth. Read more

Published: 6th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Visiting a dental hygienist or dental therapist

Visiting a dental hygienist or dental therapist

Dental hygienists are specially trained to work as part of the dental team, to give care to patients, with a preventive approach. Read more

Published: 5th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

What to do following an extraction

What to do following an extraction

General advice about what to do after having teeth taken out. Includes what precautions you should take and things to avoid. Read more

Published: 4th January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

White fillings

White fillings

Many of us are now more conscious about the way we look and don't want silver fillings to show when we laugh or smile. Read more

Published: 3rd January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth

The wisdom teeth are the last to appear, right at the back of the mouth, often between 17 and 25 but sometime many years later. Read more

Published: 2nd January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

X-rays

X-rays

X-rays can help the dental team to see in between your teeth or under the edge of your fillings to find and treat dental problems. Read more

Published: 1st January, 2017

Updated: 3rd October, 2022

Author:

Back to top

Showing 10 of 55

Latest

  • Taskforce backs the benefits of teledentistry to improve global oral care outcomes

    Taskforce backs the benefits of teledentistry to improve global oral care outcomes

    20 MARCH 2023 - A GLOBAL TASKFORCE of academic experts has concluded that teledentistry has the ability to give millions more people around the world regular access to dental services.

  • The role of teledentistry in enabling improved oral care outcomes

    The role of teledentistry in enabling improved oral care outcomes

    In a new opinion paper on the role of teledentistry in enabling improved oral care outcomes, we define the major barriers to accessing oral healthcare and review the most recent publications on teledentistry projects.

  • Cameron Fisher's Appeal

    Cameron Fisher's Appeal

    I will be doing a sponsored silence for two days to raise money for the Oral Health Foundation.

  • Oral health and socioeconomic inequalities

    Oral health and socioeconomic inequalities

    Many factors can influence our life: where we go to school, what friends we make, and even the opportunities we have in life. However, we don’t usually think about how our socioeconomic status can affect our dental health.

Most read

  • Mouth ulcers

    Mouth ulcers

    Usually red or yellow in colour, mouth ulcers are painful sores that can appear inside the mouth and also on the outer lips.

  • What to do following an extraction

    What to do following an extraction

    General advice about what to do after having teeth taken out. Includes what precautions you should take and things to avoid.

  • Burning mouth syndrome

    Burning mouth syndrome

    Burning Mouth Syndrome can be an extremely uncomfortable condition which can have several potential causes.

  • How to spot mouth cancer

    How to spot mouth cancer

    How much do you know about the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer? By being Mouthaware you can make a difference in the fight against mouth cancer.

  • Geographic tongue

    Geographic tongue

    Geographic tongue is a common condition which can appear on the top and sides of the tongue, and sometimes on the under-surface.

  • Bridges and partial dentures

    Bridges and partial dentures

    These replacement options for missing teeth are often recommended for oral health purposes as well as cosmetic appearance.

  • What foods and drinks contain acid and why it spells trouble for our oral health

    What foods and drinks contain acid and why it spells trouble for our oral health

    10 JUNE 19 - As part of National Smile Month, the Oral Health Foundation and GSK have come together to discuss the threat acidic foods and drinks pose to our oral health.

  • Wisdom teeth

    Wisdom teeth

    The wisdom teeth are the last to appear, right at the back of the mouth, often between 17 and 25 but sometime many years later.

  • Sugar free chewing gum

    Sugar free chewing gum

    Chewing sugar-free gum helps protect your teeth and gums in between meals when it may not be possible to brush with a toothbrush.

  • “Spit don’t rinse” for better oral health

    “Spit don’t rinse” for better oral health

    6 JUNE 2016 - Fitting is largely considered one of the worst habits a person can have yet that’s exactly what one leading health charity is asking all of us to do.

Tag cloud

bad breath Campaigns Dental health Dental hygiene awareness Free check up Mouth Cancer Mouth Cancer Action Month National Smile Month Oral Cancer Oral health Patient story Safebrace Smilathon Smiley Sugar TMA Tag 1
A-Z of Oral Health

A-Z of Oral Health

Learn all about a variety of oral health conditions and how they can affect you. Read more

Published: 26th January, 2015

Updated: 1st December, 2022

Author: Sophie Turner

The Oral Health Podcast

The Oral Health Podcast

Listen to bite-size discussions with industry leaders about how to improve your oral health. Read more

Published: 16th May, 2019

Updated: 3rd November, 2022

Author: George Bushell

The role of teledentistry in enabling improved oral care outcomes

The role of teledentistry in enabling improved oral care outcomes

In a new opinion paper on the role of teledentistry in enabling improved oral care outcomes, we define the major barriers to accessing oral healthcare and review the most recent publications on teledentistry projects. Read more

Published: 16th March, 2023

Updated: 20th March, 2023

Author: Viktoriia Davydenko

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Oral Health Foundation, Smile House, 2 East Union Street, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV22 6AJ, UK

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About Safe Smiles

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