Looking after your teeth and gums between NHS dental check-ups is essential for long-term oral health. A strong daily routine, healthy lifestyle choices, and understanding NHS dental services can help prevent problems before they start. This guide explains how to maintain good oral health while making the most of NHS dental care in Aberdeen.
Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Brush your teeth morning and night using fluoride toothpaste. Spend at least two minutes brushing all surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. Replace your toothbrush or electric brush head every three months, or sooner if the bristles become worn.
Clean Between Your Teeth Daily
Brushing alone does not remove plaque between teeth. Use dental floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser once a day to remove trapped food and bacteria that can lead to gum disease.
Bleeding Gums When Cleaning
Bleeding gums are often an early sign of gum disease. Continue cleaning gently and consistently. If bleeding does not improve within a few days, book a dental appointment for advice and assessment.
Diet and Lifestyle Habits
Reduce Sugar Intake
Limit sugary foods and drinks, especially between meals. Sugar feeds harmful bacteria that cause tooth decay. Choose healthier snacks such as vegetables, cheese, or nuts, and drink water throughout the day.
Smoking and Oral Health
Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and mouth cancer. Quitting smoking significantly improves both oral and overall health.
Alcohol Consumption
Drinking excessive alcohol can cause dry mouth, bad breath, and increase the risk of oral cancer. Moderation is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Caring for Children’s Teeth
Start Brushing Early
Begin brushing a child’s teeth as soon as they appear using a smear of fluoride toothpaste. Early habits help protect baby teeth and support healthy adult teeth.
Build a Consistent Routine
Help children brush twice daily and supervise brushing until around age seven. Encourage healthy food choices and limit sugary snacks and drinks.
Understanding NHS Dental Services in Scotland
Accessing NHS Dental Care
NHS dental services are available across Scotland. You must be registered with an NHS dentist to receive routine care.
Registering With a Dentist
Contact local dental practices to check NHS availability. Once registered, you can receive regular check-ups and necessary treatment.
Urgent Dental Care
If you are not registered but need urgent dental treatment, NHS services can still help. Local health boards or dental helplines can guide you.
Attending With a Respiratory Illness
If you have symptoms such as a cold, flu, or COVID-19, inform the dental practice before attending. Your appointment may be rescheduled to protect others.
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Translation and Interpreter Support
Interpreter services are available for NHS dental appointments. Let the practice know when booking if support is required.
Deregistration
Missing appointments or not attending for a long period may lead to deregistration. Always keep in contact with your dental practice.
What NHS Dental Patients Receive
NHS patients receive routine examinations, preventive care, and clinically necessary treatment. Cosmetic treatments are generally not covered.
Childsmile Programme
Childsmile supports children’s oral health across Scotland through free dental packs, nursery visits, and fluoride varnish applications.
Adult Preventive Care Programme
This programme focuses on prevention, including oral health advice, monitoring gum health, and scaling when clinically required.
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Treatment Plans and Charges
You will receive a written treatment plan outlining recommended care and any charges. Some patients are entitled to free treatment depending on eligibility.
Who Qualifies for Free NHS Dental Care?
Free care may be available for:
Children
Students under 26 in full-time education
Pregnant or recently pregnant women
Individuals receiving certain benefits
Scale and Polish Treatments Explained
What Is a Scale and Polish?
A scale and polish removes plaque and tartar from teeth using specialist instruments, followed by polishing for a smooth finish.
Is It Included in NHS Check-Ups?
Not always. Under NHS guidelines, scale and polish is provided only when clinically necessary, such as for gum disease.
When Is It Considered Necessary?
If gum disease or harmful tartar buildup is present, your dentist may provide an NHS scale and polish.
How Often Can It Be Done?
This depends on your oral health. Some patients need it more frequently than others.
NHS vs Private Scale and Polish
If you prefer a cosmetic clean or more frequent cleaning without clinical need, private treatment is available at an additional cost.
Keeping Teeth Healthy Between Appointments
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Clean between teeth every day
Use mouthwash if recommended
Drink water after meals
Limit sugary snacks
Attend dental check-ups as advised
What Happens at an NHS Dental Check-Up?
Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, assess oral health risks, and discuss any concerns. If treatment is needed, a care plan will be explained.
Book Your Appointment at Oldmachar Dental Care
If you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy between NHS check-ups, Oldmachar Dental Care is here to support you. Our friendly team provides preventive advice, routine NHS care, and personalised guidance to help you maintain excellent oral health all year round. Contact Oldmachar Dental Care today to book your appointment and stay on track with your dental wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I request a scale and polish without gum disease?
Yes, but it may need to be provided privately if it is not clinically required.
Does every NHS check-up include a scale and polish?
No. It is only included when there is a medical need.
Do bleeding gums qualify for NHS treatment?
Bleeding gums may indicate early gum disease and should be assessed by a dentist.
Is a scale and polish the same as deep cleaning?
No. Deep cleaning treats advanced gum disease below the gumline and may require multiple visits.
Can children receive a scale and polish on the NHS?
Yes, if clinically necessary, though preventive care is usually sufficient.