Preventative dental care helps people keep their mouths healthy. A combination of in-office dental checkups and at-home oral hygiene help you avoid different oral health problems, such as gum disease and cavities. As with a lot of things, prevention is better than cure. When you visit your Midlothian, VA dentist, you get a medical examination and dental cleaning that ensure nothing is ruining the health of your teeth. And when your dentist detects any problem, they can address it right away before it worsens.
How to Care for Your Teeth at Home
Preventative care must also be practiced at home. Indeed, you need to have good at-home oral hygiene practices to keep your mouth healthy. The following are tips for at-home oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth two times every day for two minutes. It’s important to thoroughly brush your teeth twice every day to keep your mouth healthy. Brush your teeth once after breakfast, and do it again after your last meal of the day.
- Floss your teeth once every day. By flossing your teeth, you get rid of any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth. This minimizes your risk of developing gum disease. You should floss your teeth at least once every day.
- Use fluoride toothpaste. Eat a tooth-healthy diet. As much as possible, avoid consuming sugary beverages. Water is a better option. Also, minimize the amount of starchy and sugary processed foods you consume. Focus more on fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy dairy, whole grains, and lean meat.
- Make changes in your lifestyle. Some lifestyle changes, such as stopping smoking or minimizing alcohol consumption, can help you maintain good oral health.
Why See a Dentist Twice Every Year
By vising a dentist every six months, you get dental checkups that make sure any possible oral health problems are caught early. Even if you have been taking care of your mouth properly, you must still see your dentist, as your visit can also include cleanings. During your visit, you can discuss your overall oral with your dentist and understand more about how to improve your oral health.
Moreover, dental cleanings are important because brushing may still not be enough to get rid of all stains and plaque on your teeth. A thorough cleaning will ensure each of your teeth is in its top shape. When your teeth are clean, you avoid cavities and tooth decay that may cause further complications to your health.