Without effective brushing habits in place, it can be difficult to stop problems that require restorative dental work. Infrequent, rushed, or otherwise flawed approaches to brushing your teeth can make it hard to prevent plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to cavities as well as gum disease. While the importance of smart brushing habits are difficult to overstate, this is just one of several actions you should take to protect your smile. Flossing, dieting, and routine dental appointments also help you maintain a bright, healthy smile. Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is prepared to help individuals maintain healthy teeth, just as we are prepared to take on problems that may arise.
Are You Flossing Regularly?
If you are not flossing on a consistent basis, it can be difficult to stay completely safe from oral bacteria. After all, your brush bristles can be ineffective at reaching the areas between your teeth. When you are not flossing, bacteria and food debris can gather in these tight gaps. That can lead to problems with tooth decay as well as gum disease. Remember to floss at least once per day, and to work to fully clean these spaces in order to keep them safe.
Your Diet Can Make Cavities Difficult To Avoid
You can change your risk for tooth decay by changing your typical diet. Cutting back on foods and beverages that are high in sugars, or those that are sticky and starchy, can give oral bacteria less to consume. That reduces the output of harmful acids that leads to the gradual erosion of your enamel. If you have recently had to receive a dental filling or dental crown, it may be a good idea to consider what role your diet played in affecting your risk for decay!
Your Resistance To Decay Can Change Over Time
You should be aware of how your emotional and physical changes can potentially contribute to your cavity risk. Prolonged episodes of stress can affect your diet decisions, make you more likely to suffer from dry mouth, or begin to grind your teeth. Sleep deprivation can affect your focus, and intrude on your efforts to brush and floss thoroughly. When you acknowledge how changes in your life might affect your resistance to decay, you can make adjustments to ensure that you remain protected.
Dental Impressions Has Provided Quality Oral Care To Many Ankeny, IA Families!
At Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, patients can receive quality restorative dental work that takes care of cavities while preserving the appearance of teeth. In addition to treating problems with decay, we are prepared to help individuals maintain habits that keep them safe from future problems like cavities and gum disease. To find out more, please call Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230.
