When’s the best time to use mouthwash? Are interdental brushes better than floss? And should you scrape your tongue? Here’s the full lowdown on how to avoid decay and protect your gums

It’s easy to take our dental health for granted until there is a problem – and then it can be a nightmare even getting an appointment. But most people have some level of gum disease, and even if it doesn’t hurt, it may lead to worse problems further down the line. Here is advice from dentists on how to avoid painful and costly treatment.