After a recent cavity treatment, or after receiving warnings from your dentist about gum disease, you can feel the need to reconsider your approach to daily oral care. However, you do not need to wait for an active problem occur to decide a change is in order. Recognizing your shortcomings early can help you take better care of your smile, protect yourself against plaque and tartar buildup, and stay safe from future difficulties. Remember that our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is here to help, and can provide valuable feedback about your dental well-being during every routine oral health evaluation.
Are You Doing Enough To Maintain A Healthy Smile?
You should make oral health care a priority each day, as a consistent routine creates an important line of defense between your smile and problems like dental decay and gum disease. You should take time to brush as well as floss to make sure every part of your smile has enough protection. Of course, you also want to protect yourself by making smarter choices concerning your diet, as you can lower your cavity risk when you consume less sugar and limit your intake of acidic products.
Changing Your Daily Routine To Protect Your Teeth And Gums
Simply put, you can have an easier time avoiding problems that call for restorative dental work when you put more time and effort into cleaning your teeth. That means brushing thoroughly, but it also means flossing as part of your daily routine rather than only doing it when you feel something wedged between teeth. Flossing should take place each evening, and you should take care to move your floss in a vertical motion so that you can keep bacteria from gathering below your gums. When you brush, spend at least two minutes working to thoroughly clean even those harder to reach areas. Replacing your toothbrush every three months, or even sooner when you notice that the bristles are wearing down, will help you keep your teeth protected.
Take Advantage Of The Services Provided At Regular Dental Exams
Remember that an effective smile care routine at home should not replace your regular dental exams. At these exams, you receive important early warnings about problems that you may not be aware of, and you can enjoy protection in the form of teeth cleanings. Cleanings typically cover the portions of teeth above your gum line, but when appropriate we will recommend a deep cleaning to remove bacteria under your gums.
Talk To Your Ankeny, IA Dentist’s Office About Improving Your Oral Hygiene Efforts
Through a combination of smart daily care and regular dental exams, you can control your risks for dental problems and stay free of cavities and gum disease! If you would like to learn more about how we can help you protect your smile, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230 to schedule a visit.
