Stay hydrated

Getting our allocated eight glasses of water a day has a host of health benefits from improving our digestion to our energy levels, but it can also do wonders for our teeth too.

“Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help to wash away food particles and prevent your mouth from becoming dry,” says Pascucci. Around one in five people suffer with dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, which as well as being uncomfortable can also contribute to gum disease and bad breath. “To ease the discomfort of dry mouth, try using a specialised alcohol-free, fluoride-based mouthwash or mouth gel.”

Think about how you eat and drink sweet, acidic and fizzy treats

If you deal with tooth sensitivity, cavities or gum inflammation, it’s worth keeping an eye on your consumption of certain foods that can exacerbate dental issues.

“Keep sugary snacks and drinks to a minimum,” says Pascucci. “Sugar fuels the bacteria in your mouth, leading to the production of acids that can cause cavities.” She recommends trying to reduce how often you drink fizzy drinks and eat sweets and sugary cereal.

Foods high in acid such as citrus fruits, tomatoes and vinegars can also erode tooth enamel and worsen sensitivity. “If you do eat something acidic, rinse your mouth with water afterwards and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.”

Hard, sticky foods like toffee and hard sweets can also crack weak teeth or dislodge fillings, and make cleaning teeth more difficult.

Can’t get a dentist appointment? We asked a dental therapist how to create the perfect oral routine for your teeth