Do you want to keep your mouth healthy for as long as possible? Most people want to avoid the dentist at all costs. It can be an expensive and excruciating process for some people who experience anxiety surrounding the dentist. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can avoid future dental problems if you are careful and committed. If you want to avoid some future dental problems, here are ten tips that will help keep you out the chair.
Get Regular Checkups
Dr. Matthew Ksiazkiewicz, owner of Westside Dental Group, stresses the importance of regular checkups. These are a prime time to catch major issues early on so that less drastic measures can be taken to preserve the teeth and gums. While it may be tempting to skip out on a twice-yearly appointment, you should really prioritize your dental health.
Brush Teeth Regularly
You probably already know this but proper maintenance is the number one way to avoid future dental problems. Make it a priority to brush your teeth twice a day for two to three minutes using a soft-bristled brush. Take care not to brush too aggressively as this can lead to tooth sensitivity, enamel damage, and gum erosion.
Floss Your Teeth Daily
Brushing your teeth is important, but it is not going to be enough. The bristles of your toothbrush cannot get to the important spaces between your teeth where plaque builds up and cavities tend to develop. You should be cleaning between your teeth with dental floss at least once per day. Want more in-depth tips on flossing? The best move is to talk to your dentist as they can help by giving a more hands-on demonstration.
Avoid Carbohydrates
Did you know that the foods you eat can impact your dental health? Carbohydrates tend to stick to the teeth for a long time after consumption. As a result, they can lead to cavities. If you are going to consume carbohydrates or any type of sticky foods, the best thing you can do is brush your teeth as soon as possible afterward.
Incorporate Fluoride
A diet that is lacking in fluoride may actually lead to tooth decay. While many areas add fluoride to their drinking water, you might not want to stop there. Look for toothpastes and mouthwashes that also contain this magical ingredient.
Spot Overall Health Issues
One of the benefits of regular dental visits is the ability to get an overall picture of your health. The mouth is a window to the rest of the body. Issues like gum erosion, receding gums, and even loose teeth can indicate medical problems like GERD or low bone mineral density. A dentist might be able to pinpoint a major health issue early on simply by examining your teeth.
Save Teeth from Decay
Cavities often develop between the teeth where they can fester unabated indefinitely. Regular dental checkups can help you to catch these cavities and put a stop to them before the damage goes too far. Otherwise, you may end up losing those precious teeth.
Catch Plaque Early Enough
Plaque is the building block for many things that can go wrong inside your mouth. It is a sticky substance that tends to build up on the teeth, particularly between them. If you do not have a habit of brushing and flossing regularly, you likely have a buildup of plaque that can transform into tartar. This is one of the leading causes of gum disease. However, a dental hygienist can remove this plaque buildup before it begins to create problems.
Drink More Water
All of the added sugars in sodas and juices can spell major issues with your teeth. They are one of the leading sources of added sugar in our overall diets. Instead of sipping on these types of beverages, try substituting water or unsweetened tea. Both of these are healthier alternatives that won’t lead to cavities.
Plan for Financial Issues Early
If you are in the habit of seeing your dentist regularly, they can point out areas that may become major issues in the future. Individuals who wait until they have a dental emergency often walk out the door with a major bill. Preventative dentistry gives you a window of opportunity to be warned about an upcoming issue so that you can either correct it or begin to financially plan to have it corrected.
