Attending to your oral health is very important and can help you keep your teeth well into your old age. Good dental habits include brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist, but other habits can help keep your teeth healthy, as well.
General Oral Hygiene
Keeping your teeth clean should be part of your everyday routine. You should brush and floss regularly to remove food particles from your teeth and to keep your gums healthy. It also cleans away the bacteria that builds up in your mouth as well as its waste products, which in time can build up into plaque and eventually tartar. Plaque and tartar are sticky and highly acidic. It’s the buildup of plaque and tartar that can eventually lead to tooth decay.
Brushing or cleaning your tongue can help remove additional bacteria from your mouth and can also reduce the likelihood of bad breath. If you choose, you can also use an antiseptic mouthwash for even more protection. If you aren’t sure about your brushing and flossing technique, or if you’d like additional information regarding the best types of toothpaste, floss, or other tools to use, consult our dentist.
Other Good Dental Health Habits
Visiting your dentist regularly is also a very important way to keep your teeth healthy. Most dentists recommend that you visit at least twice a year. Under some circumstances, your dentist might want to see you more often, such as if you are prone to cavities or gum disease, or if you have implants that need to be monitored. Each time you see the dentist, you’ll have a professional cleaning and examination. If you’re developing any problems, such as gingivitis or tooth decay, you will receive treatment. Dentists also screen for oral cancer.
Dental X-rays are also important, and are taken on a regular schedule. X-rays and detailed digital photography can find early signs of decay that might not be immediately visible to the naked eye. These diagnostic tools make it possible for you to receive treatment for any problems before they become too serious and require extensive, often invasive procedures, up to and including dental extractions or gum surgery.
To schedule your next dental cleaning or other appointment, call our caring and professional team at Tate Family Dentistry today!