Moving away from home to study is an exciting time for students however, it can be a massive adjustment to relocate and let’s be honest, on the list of priorities, teeth and oral healthcare may probably fall to the wayside.
We spoke with Dr Anima Bodane, Principal of NW1 Dental Care, who wanted to shed light on the importance of maintaining your oral healthcare and also provide us with a few tips to help us stay on top of this!
Understanding the Challenges of Dental Care Among University Students
As we transition into adulthood and embark on our university journeys, the responsibility for maintaining our oral health shifts from our parents to ourselves. While our parents instilled good brushing routines and scheduled regular dental check-ups, the demands of university life often disrupt these practices. This change can manifest in several ways:
1. Altered Routine
University life introduces new challenges, such as shifting semester schedules, nights out with friends, and even studying abroad. These changes can wreak havoc on established sleeping patterns and routines.
2. Neglected Oral Care
The freedom of university life sometimes leads to the occasional neglect of our previously impeccable dental care routines. Late-night study sessions or social events may tempt us to skip brushing and flossing.
3. Dietary Shifts
University can also bring about changes in our diet, including more frequent indulgence in sugary foods and beverages. This dietary shift can increase the risk of developing cavities and other dental issues.
When all these factors combine, university students may find themselves facing gum and tooth problems. The challenge intensifies when they’re away from home, as they may be unsure of where to seek dental assistance. Understanding these challenges is the first step in addressing them and ensuring that dental care remains a priority during this crucial phase of life.
Rebuilding Your Daily Dental Routine: Valuable Tips for a Healthier Smile
Prevention truly holds the key to maintaining optimal oral health. Here are some essential tips to guide you:
1. Upgrade to an Electric Toothbrush
Consider investing in an electric toothbrush equipped with a timer. This handy feature ensures that you brush your teeth for the recommended duration, twice a day.
2. Prioritize Flossing
Don’t forget to floss or employ a water flosser to reach those tight spaces between your teeth. This step helps eliminate lingering food particles and promotes thorough cleanliness.
3. Mind Your Sugar Intake
Be mindful of your sugar consumption, especially late at night. Ideally, consume sugary items as part of a meal rather than as standalone snacks between meals. It’s not just the sugar itself that impacts your teeth, but the frequency with which you expose them to sugary foods.
4. Establish a Dental Care Routine
While at university, make it a point to locate a dental practice that you can visit during the term. Regular check-ups and oral hygiene appointments will go a long way in maintaining the health of your teeth and gums.
By incorporating these practical tips into your daily routine, you can safeguard your dental health and enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile throughout your university journey.
Common Dental Challenges Faced by Students
1. Bad breath
Dealing with bad breath can be rather embarrassing, but fret not. The key to conquering this issue lies in enhancing your daily dental regimen and consulting a professional dentist to unearth its root cause (no pun intended!).
2. Sore gums
Sore gums can be localized and linked to an infected tooth or a consequence of habits like smoking and inadequate oral hygiene. These practices pave the way for bacterial infections in your gum tissues.
3. Tooth decay
Tooth decay can strike around an existing filling or manifest as a new cavity. Swift attention is essential to preserve your dental health.
4. Chipped tooth
Here’s a piece of advice: when faced with a stubborn bottle cap, opt for a bottle opener, not your teeth!
Now, let’s delve into dental treatment options that are both affordable and accessible. Remember, your smile is your superpower, and having a confident grin can open doors to new opportunities.
Unlocking Your Potential with Affordable and Accessible Dental Solutions at NW1 Dental Care
Your smile wields extraordinary power – it has the ability to draw the right people and opportunities towards you when showcased with confidence. While you’re in university, it’s the ideal time to perfect your smile, providing you with a competitive edge brimming with self-assuredness as you step into the professional world.
Discover the transformative treatments that can rejuvenate your smile:
1. Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening guarantees a dazzling, damage-free smile with enduring results.
2. Teeth Straightening
As a student, opt for Invisalign aligners, enabling you to seamlessly pursue your dream career without the need for frequent adjustment appointments.
3. Tooth-Coloured Fillings
Swap out unsightly silver fillings for ones that blend seamlessly with your teeth, illuminating any room with your radiant smile.
4. Cosmetic Bonding
Effortlessly eliminate irregular tooth edges to unveil a flawless and captivating smile.
In addition, NW1 Dental Care extends a generous 10% discount on treatments* to all Stay Club Residents, yay! This offer is applicable for the academic year 2023/2024, and it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Your journey to a confident, radiant smile begins here.
(*Discount excludes packages and offers that are already discounted for 2023/2024.)
