Preventative dentistry can save you time and money in the long run. If you take care of your oral health now, you may prevent issues from occurring later on. These issues may include tooth decay and gum disease, which can both be painful and costly to manage. At Beaches Dental Mona Vale our patients’ oral health is our number one priority.
In this article, we discuss what preventative dentistry is and what it involves.
What is preventative dentistry?
Preventative dentistry is a way of keeping your teeth and mouth healthy. Think of it as an investment in your gums and teeth that can help prevent a whole range of dental issues. These issues can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. It can also help you avoid costly procedures. Preventative dentistry is a collaboration between patient and dentist. You need to keep up maintenance at home, while also going for regular check-ups. Doing little things now really can make all the difference later on.
Why is preventative dentistry important to my health?
The health of your teeth is linked to your overall well-being. There are many health concerns related to poor oral health. These include cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke. By taking care of your teeth, you are helping to take care of your whole body.
There are also benefits to our emotional health. Having a healthy smile can make you feel more confident. This means you can enjoy life without worrying about how your teeth feel and look.
Who can benefit from preventative dentistry?
Everyone can. If you have children, you should teach them good oral habits. They can continue these habits into adulthood. However, it is never too late to start caring for your teeth. No matter what age you are, you can benefit from healthier teeth.
What does preventative dental care involve?
There are three parts to preventative dental care, which we discuss below:
1. Cleaning your teeth
Cleaning your teeth every day is one of the best ways to achieve a healthy smile. The ideal time for brushing your teeth is for 2 minutes. This needs to be done twice a day. You must thoroughly clean- don’t forget to brush your tongue! Your tongue holds bacteria that can damage your teeth if it is left to linger for too long. Use fluoride-based toothpaste to help keep your enamel strong. You can also use mouthwash as an extra step if you require it.
Don’t forget to floss. A toothbrush cannot clean your teeth entirely. Flossing gets in between your teeth- where your toothbrush can’t reach. Make flossing once a day part of your routine. Once you’ve been doing it for a while it will become easier.
2. Lifestyle
Eating a well-balanced diet, drinking enough water and leading a healthy lifestyle is important for your teeth. Try to limit your sugar consumption. This means avoiding sugary drinks and sweets. Sugar is bad for your teeth, especially if you aren’t cleaning your teeth properly. Eat a mixture of fruit, vegetables, nuts, dairy and meat. Foods like celery, cheese and nuts are good for your teeth.
Smoking is also bad for your teeth. If you are a smoker, quitting will reduce your risk of dental problems related to tobacco.
3. Visiting the dentist
Even if your oral hygiene habits are fantastic, you still need to see your dentist regularly. This would ideally be once every six to nine months. Your dentist can perform a thorough examination and spot any potential problems. A trip to the dentist for preventative dentistry may involve a combination of professional cleaning, X-rays and advice.
It is important to have a regular professional clean with your dentist. They have tools that allow them to thoroughly clean your teeth. This involves removing plaque and polishing your teeth. X-rays give your dentist a way to check hard to see areas of your teeth like in between your teeth or under old fillings. Your dentist can also discuss a personalised oral health plan with you. You’ll be on your way to healthy teeth in no time!
Visit your Mona Vale dentist
At Beaches Dental Mona Vale, we are big on preventative dentistry. After all, prevention is always better than cure! Give us a call to book in for your preventative dentistry appointment today.
