Going to the dentist is, for many, still a nerve wracking experience. In spite of steps taken by dental practises world wide to ensure maximum comfort for their patients, most people cannot quell the sense of anxiety popularly associated with the dentist's chair.

While regular dental checkups are an absolute necessity, people who look after their teeth and gums well in the time between visits to the surgery will find their time in the chair far more pleasant than those who do not. Contrary to popular belief, maintaining a good standard of dental health is not simply a matter of hygiene.

While regular brushing, flossing and rinsing are key activities which help to ensure a clean, disease-free mouth, there is also an element of oral well-being which relies on a healthy lifestyle. Changes in diet can, in particular, assist in the maintenance of dental fitness. Patients are encouraged to approach their dentists for more information on how to keep teeth and gums clean and fresh, however, for the basic principles, read on.

It is common knowledge that sugary foods promote gum disease, other wise known as periodontal disease or gingivitis. The bacteria which attach the mouth's soft tissue thrive in an acidic environment and thus sweets and chocolate should be eaten in moderation. In fact, gum disease has long been considered one of the unfortunate downfalls of drinking fruit juice, which while it is beneficial in multiple ways, is also very high in sugar and bad for the mouth.

However, dentists say that because fruit juice is often a good source of Vitamin C, it is in fact beneficial to the health of gums. Studies have shown a higher rate of periodontal disease amongst adults with Vitamin C deficiencies because they do not have the immune capacities the nutrient promotes. So in short, fruit juice taken regularly as a source of vitamins is a great help in the maintenance of oral health, however, to combat the acidic effects of its high sugar content, regular brushing and flossing is, it goes without saying, a necessity.