What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is a branch of oral health care focused on keeping your teeth and gums healthy through preemptive measures.
It works to prevent common oral health problems such as cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and more. If you have children, you should also take steps to teach them about good oral hygiene at a young age.
How can I keep good preventive dentistry habits at home?
There are several things you can do at home to significantly lower your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. The team at Archie Dental Group recommends:
Brushing and flossing regularly
The easiest way to prevent oral health problems is to brush your teeth with a fluoride-based toothpaste twice each day. To ensure you achieve the best possible results, it’s recommended you change your toothbrush every 3-4 months or whenever the bristles start fraying.
In addition, make sure to brush your tongue; doing so freshens your breath and prevents bad bacteria from taking hold.
It’s also important to floss your teeth. Flossing is the only way to eradicate food particles, plaque, and bad bacteria from the interproximal areas between your teeth. It also massages your gums, which promotes their health and well-being.
Eat a healthy diet
If you want to lower your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, eat a healthy diet that contains plenty of vitamins and nutrients. Limit your sugar intake and avoid beverages like soda, energy drinks, and fruit juices. Instead of candy bars or chips for snacks, opt for something crunchy and carbohydrate-free, such as celery sticks, carrots, or bell pepper slices.
Visit the dentist regularly
The American Dental Association recommends everyone visit the dentist at least once every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. Even if you brush and floss regularly, you should still participate. Many oral health problems don’t present symptoms in their early stages. Regular appointments can detect them early on when they respond best to treatment.
What are the benefits of practicing preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry presents an array of benefits. For one, it lowers your risk of cavities, gum disease, gum recession, and tooth loss. Participating in preventive dentistry also bolsters your physical health.
There’s evidence to suggest chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis are more likely to occur in people who don’t stay on top of their oral health.
If it’s been more than a year since your last dental checkup, make a preventive dentistry appointment at Archie Dental Group today by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool.
