How did you celebrate National Oral Hygiene Month in October? If you finally scheduled your overdo teeth cleaning with your dental hygienist, dentists will tell you that you have done one of the best things possible for your oral health.
The fact is, oral health is among the most neglected of practices by Americans, and that includes dental cleanings, checkups, and even changing toothbrushes regularly. When it comes to flossing, most Americans admit not flossing regularly and as many as one-third say they never floss. Yet brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings are critical to oral health and overall health.
Develop good oral hygiene habits
If last month got your attention regarding your dental care routine, know that dentists encourage carrying those better oral hygiene habits forward into the holiday season. The tendency to overindulge in sugary treats and beverages make it even more important to focus on regular oral hygiene, including the following:
- Brush at least twice a day, and always after sugary or sticky treats that coat and stick to your teeth.
- Learn proper brushing techniques, including gentle up and down strokes.
- Floss every day, because your toothbrush cannot get between your teeth and along your gum line where bacteria grow.
- Rinse with a mouthwash for the antimicrobial benefits you won’t get from brushing.
Regular dental visits make the difference
Your regular dental visit provides the opportunity to check your teeth for decay and your gums for signs of periodontal disease. X-rays, in some cases annually, also give your dentist a better look at possible deep decay as well as positioning of teeth that have not come in yet, such as wisdom teeth. Your dentist also will do a simple cancer screening.
Among the biggest benefits of seeing your dentist every six months is a thorough cleaning that attacks the plaque and tartar that even diligent brushing cannot get. Plaque is a sticky film on your teeth that harbors bacteria and can inflame your gums. What isn’t removed by brushing will harden into tartar, which your toothbrush cannot remove. Left unchecked, both plaque and tartar can cause decay and ultimately lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
Don’t neglect your teeth! At Pristine Dental regular cleanings and checkups help you avoid serious dental issues by providing the care you need, including periodontal tracking, sealants, and fluoride treatment, as well as timely restorative treatments that keep your smile looking its best. Click here for details about all the dental procedures available from Pristine Dental.