Preventative Dentistry Tips
When it comes to dental health, there are many things that a general and cosmetic dentist can do for you. Chipped tooth? Restorations are available. A dingy, discolored smile? Teeth whitening and other forms of cosmetic care can make it bright and white again. Missing teeth? Dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants can all work wonders for a patient.
Yet even though a dentist can do a lot for his or her patients, there are many things that patients can do for themselves to ensure that they have the best smiles possible. We want to turn our attention to these kinds of actions right now.
Why Prevention is the Best Medicine
It's always best for a patient to keep as much of his or her natural tooth structure as possible. This means optimal dental wellness, less dental work required, and just makes good sense overall. To look at it another way, prevention is the best medicine because it reduces the need for medicine.
Brushing Your Teeth Is a Key to Great Health
The old standbys still apply, and this is an indispensable tip for having a beautiful smile. By brushing your teeth twice a day, you remove food particles and prevent plaque from causing tooth decay. For the best results, you should really brush after every meal.
Flossing Is Always Important
Another old standby that's just as crucial for long-term dental wellness, patients should floss their teeth at least every night. This helps remove plaque and food particles in those hard-to-reach spots the toothbrush can't access. It's also best for patients to floss after every meal.
Regular Dental Checkups Are a Must
Visiting your dentist twice a year is very important if you want to have a smile that looks great and is healthy as well. Your dentist can treat minor problems before they become major ones, or even prevent minor problems from occurring in the first place.
Don't Chew On Things You Shouldn't Chew
Bad habits like chewing on fingernails and pen caps aren't just social faux pas. These actions can actually do tooth damage over time. Do your best to be well mannered.
Quit Smoking Cigarettes and Using Other Tobacco Products
Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco will stain your smile and increase your risk of developing different kinds of cancers. There are so many compelling reasons to quit, and this is just another one.
Consider Mouth Protection When Applicable
If you play contact sports, combat sports, or are employed in a profession where blows to the mouth and face may occur, it's a good idea to look into wearing mouth guards to protect your teeth from harm. This can mean all the difference between a perfect smile and a gap where a tooth was knocked out.
Speak with Your Dentist Should Any Concerns Arise
Whether it's a concern about jaw clicking or a dental health emergency that comes as a result of an accident, speaking with your dentist right away is a great idea. While this is not prevention per se, it is a kind of urgent care, which is just as crucial for keeping bad situations from becoming worse.
Learn More About Dental Care Treatments
For more information about all of your options for achieving great dental health, be sure to contact our Troy, MI dental care center today. During your visit, we will evaluate your dental health and help you achieve the best possible wellness. Our team is here for you.