Looking for information on preventive dentistry? Read on to learn more. A good preventive dentist can save you money on significant tooth problems, pain, and costly treatments in the future. All treatments or procedures that prevent tooth decay, tooth damage, and gum disease fall under preventive dentistry. Fortunately, when preventive dentistry is incorporated into daily life, maintaining good oral health becomes simple.
The following are tips from a preventive dentist to maintain a healthy smile for a long time:
Brushing the teeth twice per day is a foundational preventive step against oral health issues. Individuals should brush their teeth in the morning and at night to remove plaque, bacteria, and debris that may have gathered from eating and drinking during the day. Forgetting to brush the teeth before going to bed puts the teeth at risk of cavities and gum disease.
Flossing at least once daily is one of the simplest and most important steps for maintaining good oral health. Flossing removes plaque and grime from between the teeth and under the gum line. The bacteria in plaque are largely responsible for gum disease and cavities.
It is advisable to floss brushing the teeth in the evening. Flossing before brushing removes the buildup on the teeth that the toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing before bedtime helps keep clean teeth and prevents plaque buildup in the mouth.
Individuals should make appointments for exams and cleanings to keep their teeth healthy. During the checkup, the dentist will clean the teeth thoroughly to eliminate plaque and tartar from the surface area of the teeth and under the gum line. They will also examine the oral cavity for any signs of dental problems. If there are issues, they will offer treatments to restore normal oral health.
Toothbrushes have a short lifespan. Once the bristles wear out, they end up much less efficient at cleaning the teeth. The toothbrush could also get contaminated with bacteria accumulation. A preventive dentist recommends replacing toothbrushes or toothbrush heads each quarter. A good idea would be to set a reminder to change it.
Major issues often start small. Typically, when there are issues, patients should ensure that they seek dental treatments when necessary as part of preventive dental care. This means not postponing treatment for a basic filling for a year only to have a root canal done later on. When dental problems are not dealt with immediately, they can cause substantial damage and discomfort. It may also require more extensive and more expensive treatments.
Realigning one’s teeth and bite is not for the aesthetics alone. It also improves overall dental health. If the teeth are crooked, gapped, crowded, or misaligned, bacteria, food and plaque may easily accumulate in those hard-to-reach spots. The plaque then hardens into tartar, ultimately causing gum disease and tooth decay. Misaligned bites can also cause TMJ problems and jaw pain. An orthodontic treatment such as braces or clear aligners can straighten the teeth and prevent serious dental problems.
Waking up with jaw pain or a headache might signal teeth grinding during the night. Clenching and grinding are harmful unconscious behaviors that can crack or chip the teeth. Dental crowns and porcelain veneers may be necessary eventually to restore healthy tooth height. The dentist may recommend a mouthguard to wear during sleep to avert the issue.
Drinking enough water reduces the number of bacteria in the mouth. Plaque and bacteria can accumulate on the teeth after consuming sugary drinks. Water helps with saliva production, which in turn helps to prevent dry mouth. It is important to drink enough water daily so that you can remain hydrated throughout the day.
Most processed foods have added sugar. After eating a piece of cake, sugar builds up on the teeth. Reducing sugar consumption can help in preventing plaque buildup, but it is also helpful in maintaining good overall health. The American Heart Association suggests women limit sugar to 25g daily. For men, the recommended daily sugar intake is 37.5g.
You can have a healthy smile by following these tips from a preventive dentist. Book a consultation with our office today if you have not had a dental checkup in over six months.
Request an appointment here: https://www.santamonicadental.com or call Santa Monica LiveWell Dentistry at (310) 907-7780 for an appointment in our Santa Monica office.
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