What to Know About Preventive Care
When it comes to your teeth, you should focus on good preventive care. This means not only brushing and flossing daily but also taking steps to keep your teeth in optimal condition. This means using mouthwash, using care around hard foods, and avoiding acidic foods. It also means using a mouthguard if you play sports or grind your teeth.
Preventative care also means seeing your dentist regularly. General dentistry is as much about prevention as it is about treatment. You should see your dentist every six months for thorough cleanings, oral exams, and X-rays. These actions will help identify any oral health issues early on so you can avoid gum disease, tooth loss, and other issues that can affect not only your mouth but your entire body.
With a combination of good at-home dental care and visits to your dentist twice a year, you can keep your teeth healthy for many years. Read on to learn more about why regular dental checkups are important and how you can prevent common dental issues.
Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are good for your health. You may not realize it, but oral health is closely tied to your overall health. An example of this is gum disease. Gum disease is connected to diabetes, high blood pressure, strokes, and heart disease.
Because of this, your dentist will look for signs of gum disease at your dental checkup. They will also check for cavities and oral cancer, which can affect your health and well-being. Tooth decay, if left untreated, can cause pain, making it difficult to eat. It can also lead to tooth loss.
This means that by attending all your dental appointments, you are doing your part to take care of your entire body. Be sure to see your dentist every six months for the best results.
How to Prevent Common Dental Issues
With a little effort and a few minutes a day, you can prevent common dental issues and keep your teeth healthy for a long time. Here are some things you can do:
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush and floss daily to keep teeth clean and remove plaque.
- Visit your dentist every six months for checkups.
- Avoid tobacco products. Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
- If you have diabetes, try to manage it as best as possible. This will decrease the risk of gum disease and other complications.
- See your dentist if you notice any changes in your mouth, such as pain, loose teeth, discoloration, or ulcers.
Contact Comprehensive Dentistry Today
While regular dental checkups are a good way to get a deep cleaning and prevent major dental issues, the bulk of the work should be done at home. By spending time on your teeth every day, you can keep your teeth healthy for years to come.
The first step to achieving the beautiful, healthy smile you desire is to contact a Ypsilanti dentist from Comprehensive Dentistry. A healthy mouth is as easy as making a phone call. Schedule an appointment today by filling out the online form or calling (734) 390-4337.