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The best way to prevent extensive dental treatments is by establishing good oral health habits. Here, we’ll explain ways in which you can practice preventive measures to keep your teeth healthy and therefore reduce your need for extensive dental treatments.
- Brush & Floss Every Day
- Use Fluoride
- Maintain a Healthy Diet
- Avoid Smoking
- Keep Up with Your Regular Dental Visits
The simplest way to keep your mouth clean, healthy, and free of decay and gum disease is by maintaining a superb daily oral hygiene routine. This means brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing at least once a day (particularly at night, after dinner). These two vital practices remove the daily buildup of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If left on the surface of your teeth and along your gumline, plaque will harden into tartar, a hard substance that can only be removed by a dental professional. Flossing and brushing will also help to dislodge any food particles that have been left in your mouth that, if left there, could become food for bacteria that produce acidic byproducts that will weaken your enamel.
Fluoride, a natural tooth-strengthening mineral, is an important nutrient for your teeth because it helps prevent cavities and sensitivity by strengthening your teeth’s enamel. You can get professional fluoride treatments here at Troy Bartels, DDS, but we also recommend using toothpaste that contains fluoride and drinking fluoridated tap water. An occasional rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash would also benefit your teeth .
A diet that is low in added sugar and refined carbohydrates is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Foods and drinks like candy, white bread, potato chips, soda, and prepackaged cookies feed the bacteria in your mouth, which produce acids that weaken your enamel and cause cavities. Instead of eating sugary and carbohydrate-rich foods, consume more whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A balanced diet full of nutrients will keep your teeth strong. And drink plenty of water!
If you are a smoker, you won’t be able to have healthy teeth and gums. Smoking and other tobacco use can cause dry mouth, bad breath, plaque buildup, discoloration, gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. Quit smoking as soon as possible to allow your immune system to fight off potential mouth infections!
Finally, one of the most important ways to prevent extensive dental treatments is by coming in for regular checkups and cleanings. At your appointment, we’ll evaluate the health of your mouth using dental X-rays and visual examinations to catch any signs of trouble early on. Our expert team will also clean your teeth more thoroughly than you can at home by removing all the plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth so your smile is as healthy as it can be. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment!
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