Perfect white beautiful teeth and a great smile are very important in Western culture. Maybe part of that comes from fashion models, magazines and Hollywood. Even people who don't have perfectly straight teeth need to, at the very least, ensure that their smiles are healthy. Once you have a solid understanding of proper tooth and gum care, then it will be clear that keeping them healthy and in good shape is not difficult. Would it surprise you to learn that most of the things you do during the day aren't great for your teeth? The best line of defense you have includes education, regular checkups and action taking.
There is a long-standing issue about the use of fluoride in drinking water, toothpastes and other products for mouth care. Even your annual dental cleaning includes a "bath" for your teeth in a gooey tray of fluoride paste. People who subscribe to alternative medicine and natural health care, though, think fluoride is harmful. We're not going to take part in that debate. So, if you feel comfortable with it, you should know that fluoride is supposed to prevent cavities. So be sure your toothpaste has it because there are brands out now that are fluoride-free to satisfy the other crowd. Do what your conscience tells you is the right thing to do. Word of advice for locating a good dental office: Search online for something like cosmetic dentist Seaside and read the reviews.
When you visit your dentist, make sure that you ask questions. Your dentist is the best source of relevant and accurate information when it comes to your oral hygiene program. A good question to ask your dentist is whether you should be using a soft or hard bristled toothbrush and which brand is best. Sadly, hard bristled brushes can be bad for the gums. In addition to that, pressing too hard when you use that type of brush can make your gum line recede prematurely. It does take time for the gums to recede but even if you are a young person you can cause it to happen. When gums recede they expose parts of your teeth not used to exposure which causes them to be very sensitive.
Let's talk a little bit about the nation-wide obsession the US has with teeth whiteners. First, did you know the natural color of all teeth is slightly yellowish? This is God's honest truth: teeth are not naturally white. You really need to be very careful because you can cause serious tooth issues later on. All of these products list peroxide as the main ingredient and all that peroxide does is act as a bleach for your teeth. In the process it causes damage to your tooth enamel. When done often enough it is possible to lose your enamel altogether. And from then on, you're in for a world of problems dentally.
There are tons of people who subject their teeth and gums to all sorts of foods and drinks that cause cavities. If you want your teeth to stay healthy you need to make sure that you are practicing preventative measures to keep them that way.
Dr James S. Oh is an experienced Pacific Grove dentist. His dental practice is close to all of Monterey County.
James S. Oh, DDS
21 Upper Ragsdale Dr
Ste 160
Monterey, CA 93940
(831) 655-2222
http://www.montereydentistry.net