January is a time when many of us make healthy new years’ resolutions to hit the gym more, quit smoking or cut down our alcohol intake. There are also lots of things you can do to look after the health of your teeth after the excesses of Christmas and New Year.

How can I look after my teeth and what food is good to eat?

A healthier diet is a great start! Try to cut out sugary drinks and those with high acid content. Eat plenty of raw veg. Fibrous vegetables and fruit like celery and apples will give your teeth a good old scrub, stimulate gums, and increase saliva flow. Avoid starchy snacks that can lead to the build up of bacteria – plain popcorn is a great alternative to crisps as it acts like a natural toothbrush as it’s being chewed too. Remember all fruits have sugars and acids so eat them with meals to lessen any harmful effects. Rice cakes, oatcakes and some crackers are low starch alternatives to bread but check the ingredients for added sugar.

What can I do about stained teeth?

You may also want to consider getting your dentist or dental hygienist to give your teeth a deep clean. Air polishing is a simple, low cost but highly effective process to remove staining from teeth – particularly that caused red wine, coffee or smoking. It involves the "blasting" of tiny granules using high pressure air - a bit like sand blasting for teeth. For more marked results most dentists now offer a range of teeth whitening options.

Where can I find teeth whitening in Renfrewshire?

If you would like any more advice on how to care for or improve the look of your teeth through teeth whitening or polishing visit us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call 01505 704969 or click www.kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips. We are handy for both Renfrewshire villages of Houston and Bridge of Weir as well as being near to Howwood and Lochwinnoch. We also cater for patients from Johnstone and Linwood.