Ways To Work With Your Dentist To Maintain Your Teeth And Gums
Your dentist wants to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. However, the preservation of your oral health is not something that a dental professional can accomplish without your assistance. Your regular choices and the care that you provide for your mouth at home are important components of your oral health regimen.
Here are a few ways that you can help your dentist maintain your dental health.
Brush and Floss Correctly
Even though you may be brushing and flossing, it is important to perform the actions properly. The teeth should be brushed at least twice daily. In addition, they should be flossed at least once per day.
When brushing, it is important to use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Also, only gentle pressure should be applied to avoid eroding the tooth enamel and irritating the gums.
Many people avoid flossing regularly because they find it cumbersome to use string floss. However, flossing can be performed with string floss or a water flosser. To make string flossing easier, a floss pick can be used, but the pick may be difficult navigate into tight spaces within the mouth.
As alternatives to string floss, oral irrigators are often easier and faster to use. The devices contain a wand that releases a stream of water to dislodge plaque and food particles that may be caught between the teeth and along the gum line. The flow of water can also help stimulate the gum tissues to encourage healthy circulation.
Don't Skip Dental Appointments
Although you may have many other priorities in your life, it is important to keep your dental appointments. Unless you attend your appointments, your dentist is unable to provide the services needed to protect or restore your teeth.
During routine appointments, you can expect your dentist to perform the following:
- A visual assessment of your mouth. The dentist will look for signs of decay, gum disease, and systemic conditions. Signs of cancer, diabetes, and HIV may all be discovered during a dental exam.
- The clearing away of tartar and plaque. Tartar can only be safely removed using specialized dental tools.
- Treatment of minor decay. Small cavities can often be easily filled during a regular dental visit.
- Preventive treatments. The application of fluoride and dental sealants can be performed during a routine appointment.
Dental conditions can worsen if their discovery and treatment are delayed.
For more measures that you can take to protect your oral health, schedule a consultation with a local dentist.
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