Prevention Is Key To A Healthy Smile

Biannual dentist appointments play an essential role in your overall well-being. Having good oral hygiene can contribute to higher levels of confidence and can indicate changes in your health as well. The best way to take care of your smile is through prevention. In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist is here to explain the importance of checkups.

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Preventing Dental Problems

Two of the most common oral health problems are cavities and gum disease. Cavities are caused by bacteria and can lead to the decay of your tooth. If ignored, the problem will continue to grow and can cause other complications such as discomfort, difficulty eating, and even tooth loss. Gum disease can be caused by poor oral hygiene or worsened by other health conditions. This infection can cause inflamed gums, bad breath, and tooth loss.

These problems can become severe if left ignored. However, there is a way to prevent them altogether. First, at-home dental hygiene can help reduce bad bacteria that can cause these problems. It’s important to brush and floss twice a day to keep a clean mouth. In addition to this, you should see your dentist twice a year for a regular cleaning. During these appointments, the hygienist can provide you with a deeper clean than you can get at home, and will also polish your teeth, leaving you with a shiny, fresh smile.

Other Ways To Improve Your Smile

In some cases, restorations can help repair issues and improve your smile. Even with standard hygiene and prevention, cavities can still happen. Your dentist can recommend a filling to prevent further damage.

If you maintain good oral hygiene but would like to enhance the appearance of your smile, cosmetic treatments can help. Although white teeth do not necessarily mean that you have better health, they can give you an extra boost of confidence. Professional teeth whitening can be done at home or in the office and leave you with stunning results. We also have alternative methods like bonding, contouring, and even veneers depending on your preferences.

Helping Your Child, Too

Your young one’s oral health is just as important as yours. By going to the dentist and practicing prevention, you can set a good example for your child. By creating consistent habits young, your little one will be more likely to have a positive attitude regarding dental hygiene.

This can also help prevent problems down the line for them. Although your kiddo will lose their baby teeth as the permanent dentition grows, it is still important to keep the baby teeth healthy. This will ensure that their second set of teeth will grow properly.

When Is The Last Time You Saw Your Dentist?

Schedule your first appointment of 2024 today. For more information about the importance of your checkup, schedule an appointment at Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today by calling our team at (515) 965-0230.