Patients should visit their dentist every six months unless their dental provider has indicated otherwise. Research has determined there is a direct correlation between dental health and overall health placing direct emphasis on taking care of one’s oral health. A thorough cleaning coupled with a dental exam from your dentist twice each year is one way an individual can contribute to their overall good health.
What else is needed to enhance your dental health?
Brush your teeth a minimum of twice every day using a fluoridated toothpaste and soft bristle toothbrush. Using the correct tools and proper method will clean your teeth minimizing plaque build-up. Patients can benefit using an electronic toothbrush as they do most of the work for you – simply guide around your mouth reaching both the front and back of all teeth. A circular motion cleaning a few teeth at a time works best. Another benefit to an electronic toothbrush, most come with a timer to signal when you’ve brushed the recommended two minutes.
Floss every day. Your toothbrush only covers two-thirds of the surface of your teeth, so you must rely on dental floss to reach between teeth to remove what your toothbrush can’t. Flossing also helps to keep plaque controlled especially around the gum line.
Watch what you eat and drink … sugary beverages and snacks promote plaque buildup. Plaque is the leading cause of dental decay and gum disease. Save these treats for special occasions. Rely on more healthy alternatives like water (flavor it with fruit), healthy proteins, dairies like yogurt, cheese, and milk, fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Even diet soda can damage your teeth … it’s not just the sugar. The phosphoric acids in regular and diet soda can damage your dental enamel.
Anything you do for your overall health like exercise and getting sufficient rest is going to enhance dental health. And the exam your dentist provides is not just to look for cavities. More serious conditions like oral cancer can be spotted and treated before they escalate.
Make sure you schedule and keep dental cleaning appointments as directed by your dentist (some patients may need more frequent cleanings) … an hour or two twice a year is a small price to pay for maintaining a great smile and enjoying excellent dental health for your lifetime.
Schedule your biannual cleaning and dental exam with our office today!