Proper dental hygiene can help you avoid costly dental problems and severe oral health conditions. When you skip routine dental checkups and skimp on cleaning, you may not catch the early changes that can indicate a problem. You may even find yourself having to spend thousands of dollars for restorative dental care to correct damaged, decayed or lost teeth. A complete daily hygiene routine combined with effective dental care work together to prevent most serious dental health issues.
Daily cleaning of the surfaces of your teeth should form the base of your oral health routine. You should brush twice a day or after every meal for two minutes at a time. Floss at least once a day. Daily brushing and flossing remove dental plaque and bacteria from your teeth. Plaque is a viscous, filmy substance that forms after eating or drinking, and it can develop into a hardened, mineralized substance called tartar if it is not removed regularly. Plaque and tartar contribute to tooth decay and periodontal disease.
A healthy diet also plays a major part in preventing oral health problems. A diet high in simple carbohydrates and sugar contributes to tooth decay and feeds dental plaque. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can strengthen your jawbone, whereas vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids can help keep your gums healthy.
The American Dental Association suggests that even if you brush and floss as advised, you will need to visit a dentist at least twice a year. Dental visits every six months can catch oral health problems when they are still at their earliest, most treatable stages, often before they cause major damage. If you are at risk of developing periodontal disease or other oral health issues, your dentist may recommend a more frequent exam schedule. A biannual dental exam will often include a thorough dental cleaning, X-rays, a check for signs of deterioration or gum disease, and an oral cancer screening. In some cases, fluoride treatments may be administered.
Your dentist may take the chance to suggest some strategies during your dental exam to help you prevent future oral health issues. Fluoride treatments can strengthen your teeth. These may be offered in-office or administered at home. Mouth guards may be needed if you grind your teeth, a habit that wears down the enamel, can crack or break teeth, and increases the risk of Temporomandibular joint disorder. Orthodontics may also be suggested. If you have malocclusions, or misaligned teeth, braces or aligners can straighten your teeth and make them easier to keep clean and reduce the risk of TMJ disorder.
Since your oral health is closely connected to your overall health, it is crucial that you take steps to prevent dental problems. Preventative dentistry can result in fewer and less expensive dental treatments and help you to retain your own natural teeth for life.
Preventive dentistry procedures are important for maintaining the health of the teeth. NOHO Dental Center offers various preventive dental treatments to the patients.