Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dental care is extremely important for people of all ages. Failing to take care of your teeth properly can result in the need for reconstruction. Not to mention the fact that bad dental hygiene is a prominent cause of many other health issues down the road, tooth decay being one of them.

A minimum of two dental checkups each year for professional cleaning and management of any developing conditions is highly recommended. This can stop periodontal disease if it is in a beginning stage, and save you money in the long run.

Preventive dentistry strategies

While many procedures and strategies begin in the actual dentist’s practice, there are numerous things that you can do on your own to promote good periodontal health. Here are some preventive dentistry strategies for both children and adults:

Practice good oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing at least two times every day is an optimum way to take care of your mouth and teeth. These activities aid in the removal of plaque, which can build up on your teeth. Plaque buil-dup can result in tooth decay and eventual gum disease if not treated properly.

Visit your dentist regularly. You should visit your dental practice every six months or even more often if you are at risk for periodontal disease. Regular visits include dental cleanings to remove plaque buildup. Your dentist will also evaluate any oral growth and development.

Get regular screenings and x-rays. Part of your visits will probably include screenings for oral cancer and x-rays to look for cavities that cannot be seen with just the eye.

Watch what you eat. Believe it or not, your diet has a lot to do with your oral health. A diet that is high in sugar and carbs can feed bacteria that produce plaque. Low calcium diets can lead to gum disease and deterioration of the jaw.

Do not drink or smoke. Cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and alcohol can lead to bad oral health. These activities may cause oral cancer and tooth loss. At the very least, cut down dramatically for good oral health.