Whilst creating our ‘Pepper’ journal, we set-out to feature inspiring women with style and substance. Joss Harding was a no-brainer (currently a dental hygienist at ‘Confidental Dental Care’ in Stroud, Gloucestershire). She was first introduced to xylitol and its brilliant dental benefits after reading a research paper some years back. Not long after this, she found Peppersmith and has championed the benefits of our mints and gum to her patients ever since, helping us on our mission to inspire a healthy teeth revolution. What a lady.
Joss was the perfect fit for ‘Pepper’, it’s like receiving advice from a friend. If you feel a tad muddled by confusing dental facts, don’t worry, Joss has got this. Here are a few snippets from ‘Pepper’ where she settles the dental dilemmas on our minds:
How often do we really need to go to see a hygienist?
‘I’d recommend a regular visit to your dental hygienist at least twice a year. We are qualified to help and we have lots of options and ideas up our sleeve to help you keep your oral health routine simple- and yet effective as possible.’
To floss or not to floss?
‘After 24-48 hours the bacteria between the teeth change to the sort that cause toxins, which are seriously not good for your breath or your heart. I recommend to my patients that if they’re busy at the start or the end of the day then choose a different time to floss but it’s regularity of doing it once a day that’s most important.’
Is chewing gum healthy for our teeth?
‘Chewing gum is a great way of promoting saliva. Choose a brand that contains 100% xylitol and the gum will help to actively change the bacteria in your mouth to the sort that doesn’t cause decay or holes in your teeth. Xylitol mints are also a good option if gum isn’t for you. Plus, it’s a natural substance so no nasties.’
So, when is the ideal time to brush your teeth?
‘Brushing for two minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste is the best routine. I was surprised to learn a while ago that people brush for just 47 seconds on average. It’s good to spend longer and to be thorough. If you’ve had fruit for breakfast you should leave brushing for 30-45 mins after eating as fruit acids soften the enamel.’
Final thoughts…
To read Joss’ full interview click here for more insights and tips. Have you read issue 01 of our lifestyle journal, ‘Pepper’ yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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