We all know that prevention is better than cure. Dental health issues, such as decay and gum disease, are common. The good news is that most oral diseases can be prevented. In this guide, we’ll share some tips to help you keep dental woes at bay.
Daily cleaning
The best way to protect your smile and lower the risk of caries and gum disease is to adopt a good daily oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, taking care to clean every individual tooth. Set a timer if you don’t have an electric brush with a built-in timer, or brush along to your favorite song. Be gentle. If you brush too vigorously, this can damage the protective enamel surface. After brushing, avoid rinsing and use floss or interdental brushes to clean between the teeth. It’s also beneficial to brush your tongue. Wait at least 45 minutes after eating or drinking to brush your teeth.
Dental visits
Regular dental checks are designed to help dentists like those at Naperville Family Dentists to spot early warning signs and monitor your dental health. Aim to see your dentist every 6-24 months. If you haven’t been to see a dentist for a long time, schedule an appointment. If you attend regular appointments, you can reduce your risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay and take advantage of professional cleaning and hygiene services. Avoiding the dentist often means that minor issues develop into more complex problems, which are harder and more expensive to treat.
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Diet
Your diet and eating habits have a major influence on oral health. Most of us know that eating sugary foods is bad for the teeth, but when you eat is as important as what you eat. This is because the bacteria in your mouth release acids when they feed. If you graze all day, your teeth will be under attack constantly, and they won’t have an opportunity to remineralize. Stick to main meals, moderate your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and make sure you hit the daily recommended intake of calcium and vitamin D. Good sources of calcium include dairy foods, leafy green vegetables, seeds, pulses and almonds.
Seek advice
Dental problems tend to get worse with time. If you experience pain, you have sensitive teeth, your gums are sore, or you notice bleeding when you brush, don’t wait for your next scheduled appointment. Contact your dentist and seek advice. It may be possible to use preventative treatments, such as deep cleaning to reduce symptoms or to use therapies and restorative treatment, including fillings and root canal treatment, to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Dental health issues are common, but most could be prevented. If you’re keen to be more proactive in protecting your smile, there are some very simple steps you can take. Adopt a thorough daily oral hygiene routine, keep up to date with dental visits, avoid snacking and eat a healthy, balanced diet and seek advice from your dentist if you have any concerns.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
