General dentists treat patients with oral health concerns. However, they also work hard to prevent patients from ever developing oral health concerns such as cavities, damaged teeth, teeth stains and oral infections. This review offers five insights from a general dentist on how to maintain good oral hygiene long-term.
When maintaining oral hygiene, patients should brush and floss regularly, make responsible dietary choices, limit or not use alcohol or tobacco, protect teeth from damage and visit the dentist regularly. The following is a more in-depth look at each benefit and ways patients can implement responsible changes into their daily routine.
Good oral hygiene involves brushing and flossing as the general dentist recommends. Discuss brushing tips and techniques with the general dentist, which may include brushing all areas of the mouth gently yet thoroughly twice or three times each day. It is important to also consistently floss (at least once per day) and use mouthwash as frequently as the general dentist recommends.
Foods we eat play a large and often underestimated role in oral health. Foods that are high in sugar and other carbohydrates can break down teeth enamel, causing discoloration and eventually cavities. Also, the same acidic reaction that breaks down enamel can damage gums and lead to periodontal disease as well, along with increasing the risk of an oral infection.
Coffee, tea and soft drinks (along with various other dark beverages) also break down enamel and contribute to the onset of periodontal disease. Therefore, patients should limit the consumption of dark beverages that stain teeth to protect their oral health. Instead, general dentists encourage patients to drink water, which prevents dry mouth and keeps bacteria and food particles washed away.
Alcohol and tobacco are detrimental to oral hygiene in several ways. They are harmful to enamel and cause stains, and they also increase the risk of oral cancer. Therefore, it is strongly encouraged by general dentists to quit the use of tobacco products and limit alcohol to protect oral hygiene and general health.
Nightguards when sleeping and mouthguards during activities in which a blow to the face are possible are helpful in preventing teeth and gum damage. Be sure to protect your teeth from harm to ensure you do not need emergency dental care.
We recommend patients visit our dental office once every four to six months for a routine check-up and cleaning. We believe the best way to deal with serious oral health concerns is to prevent them from ever developing. Our general dentists can treat any oral health or cosmetic issues and put a plan in place to keep your smile healthy and beautiful long-term. Reach us by phone or email to learn more.
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