One of the easiest things you can do to minimize the cost and inconvenience of restorative dental care in Granbury is regular preventative care, to ensure your teeth remain healthy for a beautiful smile.
Why brush?
Brushing teeth at least twice per day, especially after eating, removes food particles, as well as plaque, which is the film that forms on your teeth. It is essential that you remove plaque regularly, as it is made up of bacteria and acids, which cause tooth decay and gum disease. By brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, not only will you be helping to reduce the bacteria level in your mouth, but this will also help to remineralize your teeth to make them stronger.
During the next visit with your Granbury dentist, we can help you to identify the best way to brush, and recommend the best toothpaste for your needs. Brushing with a soft-bristled brush will help to prevent injury to the gum tissue and damage to the enamel of the teeth. Your toothbrush should be shaped and angled to make it easy to reach every tooth. If you have a child, remember that their toothbrush should be smaller to fit their mouths. Also, toothbrushes that are worn will not be able to clean your teeth as designed, and can actually cause injury to the gums. In general, you should replace your toothbrush every few months, when it shows signs of wear, or after an illness.
Why floss?
Aside from brushing, flossing is essential to removing the plaque from the areas that cannot be reached by the toothbrush – in between teeth and under the gumline. As periodontal disease begins in these areas and can be a silent disease, it is critical that you floss daily.
We can also instruct you on proper flossing technique during your next visit to Lakeview Dental. Flossing is not easy for everyone, and we can help with tips to make it easier and a convenient part of your daily routine. Just a few minutes each day can prevent costly restorations. In addition to flossing, other types of cleaners, like spiral brushes or wedge-shaped sticks can be used to keep your gums and spaces between teeth clear of food particles.
What about mouthwash, toothpaste, and other oral care products?
There are lots of products on the market to help maintain optimal oral health, and we are happy to make recommendations on the best ones for you. Rinses, gels, and toothpastes with fluoride can help prevent decay. Those with antibacterial ingredients can help to prevent gingivitis. Other products have ingredients that help to prevent the formation of tartar, which is the hardened plaque that can form on your teeth. Gums, mints, and toothpastes that contain xylitol, a natural sweetener, also reduce bacteria and can help to reduce the likelihood of cavities forming.
Whether you already use an over-the-counter oral care product or are looking for new options, we are happy to advise you on the most appropriate products for your needs.
Are my regular checkups really necessary?
The short answer is YES! By maintaining regular checkups, your dentist is able to watch for subtle changes, such as the beginnings of tooth decay and gum disease, and take appropriate action to prevent small issues from becoming larger, more costly troubles. In addition, during regular exams, numerous systemic health issues can be detected early, including precancerous or cancerous lesions, blocked salivary glands, diabetes, and even HIV or AIDS.
The preventative care services we offer at Lakeview Dental include:
To schedule your next exam and cleaning with your Granbury dentist, call our office today at 817-573-3724 for a convenient appointment time, and let us help you maintain optimal oral health for a bright smile for years to come.