Is your oral hygiene routine good enough to keep you safe against problems with tooth decay and gum disease? These issues are a common threat, one that can affect those who feel they are adequately protected. Because our relative risk for problems can change in time, and due to different choices that we make, a routine that has been effective may protect you less than you realize. Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office can help you better support yourself by offering important preventive dental services. In addition to providing care in the office, we can help you identify shortcomings in your daily habits that should be addressed if you want to stay safe against problems that demand restorative care.
The Value Of A Consistent And Thorough Oral Hygiene Routine
If you want to make the most of your oral hygiene routine, you need to stick with it on a consistent basis. A lack of consistency can mean skipping brushing and flossing sessions, but it can also mean rushing these habits so that they cover less of your smile than they should. Both mistakes can lead to tartar accumulation, which can make you more likely to suffer from cavities and gum disease over time. You should also commit to preventive dental appointments on a regular basis. Just as gaps in daily care can hurt your smile, gaps in your preventive visits can leave you more likely to experience worsening problems over time that will require treatment.
How Can I Make Sure I Brush And Floss Effectively?
What can you do to make sure you are enjoying the right support from your daily oral hygiene efforts? There are mistakes you may not realize you are making that are actually leaving you open to problems. These mistakes include using the same toothbrush for too long – after three months, or after you notice the bristles are wearing down, you should pick up a replacement. Remember that when you floss, you should clean down to your gum line. Simply moving in a horizontal motion when cleaning between your teeth can leave bacteria behind to gather and cause issues. Be careful about how aggressively you brush – it may seem like more forceful motions will help you remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup, but this is not an effective solution to problems with tartar accumulation, and it can wear down your enamel.
Your Commitment To Smile Care Should Include Preventive Dental Exams
Even a great daily routine should be backed up with regular dental exams. The professional cleanings we provide help you avoid future dental troubles, and they help you recover from gingivitis. At regular visits, we also look for more than just dental decay and gum disease – we can look out for additional issues, like bruxism, that hurt your smile and oral health.
Talk To Your Ankeny, IA Dentist About Preventive Care
Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office can help you maintain good habits and prevent problems with your smile! To find out more, or to book an appointment, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230.
