Dental health

As you get older it is important to keep taking good care of your teeth and mouth. 

You will now have all your permanent teeth and may well have had some experience of dental treatment such as fillings, X-rays, tooth removal, or braces.

You should continue to see your dentist at least once a year and brush your teeth twice daily.  It is good practise to start flossing your teeth as well as brushing and your dentist will explain this to you.

Free dental care is available on the NHS up until you are 18 and in some circumstances longer. Check if you are eligible.

If you move to a new address you will need to register with a dentist in the local area. Find a dentist with available spaces. 

You can also access private dentistry, but you will have to pay for this.

If you have a dental emergency, such as loss of a tooth, bleeding or severe pain from your gums or teeth, you should contact your usual dentist. Find out more about accessing a dentist in an emergency or out of hours.

Smoking, consuming high amounts of sugar, poor dental hygiene, drinking caffeinated drinks, oral piercings and sport injuries can all effect your oral health. Read more about teen's teeth.