As soon as our teeth start to arrive, cavity prevention becomes a concern. Fortunately, people of all ages can rely on support from their dentist to avoid potential trouble with decay. At our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office, we are prepared to provide dental care to adults as well as pediatric dental services for our younger patients. Just as our approach to caring for patients will change as their needs change, you should be aware that your relative risk for problems like tooth decay may be affected by time. While consistent preventive dental care can limit the effects of these changes, you may find that a routine that kept you safe in the past is no longer stopping issues with cavities from forming.
A Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine Is Important
At any age, consistency with an oral care routine will be important. Bacteria pose a recurring threat for your smile over the years, and it will be important to fight it by brushing and flossing thoroughly. While young children rely on their parents for help with this care, they can begin to pick up this practice on their own once they are coordinated enough to do them well. As you age, be careful not to fall into bad habits as you grow comfortable with your routine. You should also be mindful that aggressive brushing can be less effective than you realize, and may actually speed up your rate of enamel erosion due to the friction from your brush movements.
Issues To Watch Out For As You Age
Certain changes over time can affect adults and make cavity prevention more difficult. If you have recently been surprised to learn you needed a dental filling or dental crown, consider the impact that the following may have had on your natural cavity resistance:
- Are you taking a medication that causes dry mouth?
- Are you someone who frequently enjoys acidic foods and drinks that wear down enamel?
- Have you struggled with teeth grinding issues?
- Do you have a history of trouble with dental decay?
Even people who have been consistent with their oral care through the years can find that some gradual changes affect their ability to fight decay. Stay informed about the condition of your smile by attending regular dental exams, which will give your dentist the chance to check in and offer helpful updates regarding your dental health.
How Our Practice Provides Quality Care For People In Different Age Groups
Our dental practice is prepared to help patients in different life stages maintain their dental health. For our youngest patients, we can combine preventive care with lessons on good oral hygiene, and we can also check to make sure their oral structures are developing normally. Adult patients benefit from regular feedback about their oral hygiene routine as well, and they can be warned about early signs of decay, wear and tear, and other issues.
Talk To Your Ankeny, IA Dentist’s Office About Your Oral Hygiene Concerns
At any age, a person can benefit when they have their smile checked and cleaned at our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office. To find out more, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230.
