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Dentistry
We have seen the news. We have read the signs. We have listened to David Attenborough: single-use plastic is bad. Getting rid of it is the problem as plastic does not compose. Burning it releases toxic fumes. Discarding it harms wildlife. But sometimes it is hard to find an effective alternative to plastic.
Dental products often need replacing and many are plastic. With Plastic Free July upon us, here are the best ways to make your oral hygiene routine greener.
Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes are like action figures, lined up by colour on shop shelves. Each one cloaked in a plastic case. Handles are usually plastic. The bristles are nylon. 212 million of these plastic wands get discarded in the UK every year. The standard toothbrush is very much the opposite of being green – this is where you can make a change.
Some of the bamboo toothbrushes available are brilliant. Using a sustainable wooden handle, they often come in plastic-free packaging. Whilst the bristles are still typically nylon, these can be removed when it comes to recycling. The bamboo toothbrush market is massive and grows by 10% every year. By 2030, it could be worth £52.7 million.
Floss
Bamboo really is oral hygiene’s friend – bamboo floss is also available. Easily bio-degradable, bamboo floss is easy to find. The products often use organic wax with other natural ingredients, such as peppermint oil. This ensures no toxic chemicals are needed. For those preferring a handle there are also bamboo floss picks.
Bamboo is the fastest growing land plant in the world. As demand for bamboo grows, more bamboo forests will emerge. These will absorb carbon dioxide and release more oxygen, helping the planet slow climate change. Just think – every time you clean your teeth, you are helping to keep the planet clean.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste tubes are a source for spreading microplastics in wastewater. These harm wildlife and contaminate water sources as they are not bio-degradable. Switching to natural toothpastes supports the fusion of natural ingredients and natural packaging. Natural toothpastes are often stored in jars, cardboards and even tins – all recyclable or reusable. Soon, plastic tubes may become relics.
Commercial toothpastes often contain chemicals and artificial colours. In contrast, some eco-toothpastes contain activated charcoal which has tooth whitening benefits. Changing to natural toothpastes could therefore be beneficial for the planet and for your smile. Win-win!
Plastic Free July is your chance to say ‘no’ to plastic. Buying natural products is good for everyone, everywhere. Unlock the benefits of keeping your oral hygiene green. Why keep it to July?
When is root canal treatment needed?
It’s a question many patients ask — and in this video, Richard explains it clearly and simply.
Root canal treatment is usually needed when the nerve inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen because of deep decay, a crack in the tooth, repeated dental work, or sometimes after an injury.
You might experience symptoms like persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, pain when biting, or swelling around the gum. However, sometimes there are very few symptoms at all — which is why regular check-ups at the practice are so important.
The good news is that root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. It removes the infection, saves the natural tooth, and helps you avoid extraction.
Watch Richard’s video to understand the signs to look out for — and if you’re worried about a tooth, get in touch with our reception team for advice.
Smile Hack 🍎🥕
Love a sweet treat? Jane shares a simple swap that your teeth will thank you for.
Sticky sweets cling to your teeth and sit in the tiny grooves for longer, feeding the bacteria that cause decay. The longer they stick around, the more damage they can do.
Instead, try swapping them for crunchy veg or a handful of nuts. Foods like carrots, cucumber and peppers have a natural crunch that helps stimulate saliva, which protects your teeth. Nuts are also a lower-sugar option and far less likely to cling to enamel.
Small changes really do make a big difference over time.
Are electric toothbrushes better than manual?
It’s a question we’re asked a lot at the practice – and in this video, Carol gives a clear, honest answer.
Electric toothbrushes can make it easier to clean effectively, especially if you struggle with technique, brushing for long enough, or reaching certain areas. Many people find they remove plaque more consistently, simply because they do most of the work for you.
That said, a manual toothbrush can still do a great job when used properly. It’s less about the brush itself and more about how you use it.
Watch Carol’s quick explanation to find out what we usually recommend – and how to make sure you’re getting the most from your brushing routine.
If you’re unsure whether your brushing technique is working for you, mention it at your next appointment and we’ll be happy to guide you. 🪥
Our Gromits have become quite the local celebrities here at Evolve 🐾💛
So many of you pop into our patient lounge just to see the collection, and we love how much joy they bring to patients of all ages.
At the moment, two of our Gromits seem to have wandered off on an adventure! We’re hoping they simply need a little help finding their way home.
If you happen to spot them locally or see anything that looks like part of our collection being sold, we’d really appreciate you letting us know. You can message us privately or call the practice.
They’re part of what makes Evolve feel like Evolve — and we’d love to have the whole family back together again.
Thank you for always looking out for us 💛
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😴 Can snoring affect your oral health?
In our latest Two Thirty video, Maggie answers a question many people don’t think to ask — can snoring impact your teeth and gums?
The short answer is yes, it can.
Snoring is often linked to breathing through your mouth at night, which can cause a dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in protecting your teeth, so when your mouth is dry, you may be more prone to tooth decay and bad breath.
If you snore and have noticed dryness, increased decay or concerns about your breath, it’s worth mentioning at your next appointment.
Our reception team at Evolve Dentistry in Portishead will be happy to arrange a consultation if you’d like advice.
⏰ Smile hack: When you brush matters
Did you know it’s not just how long you brush — but when you brush — that makes a difference? Maggie shares an important smile hack about timing your toothbrushing properly.
Brushing straight after eating — especially after acidic foods or drinks like fruit, juice or coffee — can actually do more harm than good. Your enamel is slightly softened, and brushing immediately can cause wear.
Maggie explains the best time to brush and why waiting can help protect your teeth long term.
It’s a small change that can make a big difference to your oral health.
How do braces actually work? 🤔
In the latest video from our Two Thirty series, Lisa explains exactly how braces move teeth — and why treatment takes time.
If you’ve ever wondered how gentle pressure can gradually straighten your smile, or what’s happening behind the scenes during orthodontic treatment, this short video breaks it down in a clear and easy-to-understand way.
Whether you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, understanding the process can make the journey feel much more reassuring.
Watch the full video now and, if you have questions about braces, our reception team will be happy to help you book a consultation at Evolve Dentistry in Portishead.
