3 Behaviors That Help Prevent Dental Problems

How long has it been since you last had to worry about a cavity? Are you more vulnerable to dental decay than you realize? Your oral health is important, as the right approach to care helps you maintain a confident smile and your overall well-being. At our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office, we can provide important preventive services during your routine dental examinations. This is an important part of an overall commitment to smile care, but it should be paired with good daily habits that keep you safe from accumulated oral bacteria.

1. Schedule Dental Exams On A Regular Basis

Whether you have cavity troubles in your past or no history of tooth decay, you should take preventive dental care seriously. Every time you see your dentist for routine care, you can enjoy important support in two distinct ways. One is through the cleanings that are provided by your hygienist. Clearing away plaque and tartar will lower your risk for future difficulties. In addition to protecting you against cavities, these services reduce your risk for problems with your periodontal health. Another important service is the review from your dentist, which can lead to the early detection of trouble with decay. Early intervention limits the damage to your enamel, and can lead to the placement of a dental filling before complications arise.

2. Take Care To Floss And Brush Every Day

Is your daily oral care routine as effective as it should be, or is there room for improvement? One important effort is flossing, which protects spaces that are difficult to reach when you only care for your smile by brushing. When you floss, you remove bacteria and food debris from the spaces between teeth, areas that are difficult to keep safe. When you brush, you should take care to care for areas that are difficult to access, such as the cusps between your back teeth.

3. Cut Back On Flavored Beverages And Drink More Water

Flavored beverages can lead to problems with dental decay, and many can leave behind stains that dull your smile. Replacing them with water will help you in several ways. One straightforward benefit is that when you cut back on sugar, you can lower your risk for cavities. By drinking more water, you can avoid dehydration that leads to dry mouth, a condition that makes it more difficult for your body to naturally resist cavities.

Your Ankeny, IA Dentist’s Office Can Help You Prevent Dental Problems

A better approach to preventive care will have long-term benefits for you, as it can reduce your risk for problems with cavities as well as gum disease. Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is happy to provide guidance for better daily care when you come in for routine care. To schedule an appointment, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230 to schedule a visit.