Do you have fire extinguishers and smoke alarms in your home? Do you have a home security system? Do you have car insurance, homeowners insurance or a life insurance policy? There is a good chance that you have answered “yes” to all or most of these questions. These are all examples of preventive measure we take to ensure that we have a long and healthy life and that our finances stay in check. So what preventive measures do you take to protect your long-term oral health? After all, your teeth play a big role in your health and your overall quality of life.
Unfortunately, many of us fail to take preventive measures that can help to increase the chances of our teeth lasting for a lifetime. Failing to take preventive measures to protect your teeth today can lead to painful and expensive dental health problems and even tooth loss in the future. Just think about how many advertisements you have seen on television or heard on the radio about dentures and dental implants. The reality is that tooth loss is still a big problem for many adults in the United States.
So what are the preventive measures we can take today to safeguard our dental health in the future? You can start with visiting your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and examinations. Six-month checkups and cleanings are recommended for most people. However, if you have dental health issues such as periodontal disease or tooth decay, your dentist may recommend that you come in more often than every six months.
Practicing good daily oral hygiene at home is also vitally important to your long-term dental health. This means brushing your teeth thoroughly at least two times per day and flossing thoroughly at least one time per day. Your dentist or oral hygienist can show you the proper techniques for brushing and flossing your teeth. If you have the tendency to brush your teeth with too much force, you may want to invest in an electric toothbrush. This will help to prevent gum damage and gum recession from overly aggressive tooth brushing. If you have periodontal disease, your dentist may also recommend that you rinse your mouth daily with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
Sealants and fluoride treatments are other preventive measures that can be taken to prevent cavities and make the teeth more resistant to decay. These preventive dental treatments are commonly used for children. In some cases, they may be recommended for adults.
If you have not been to a dentist in more than six months, schedule an appointment today. Together, you and dentist can come up with a strategy to help you achieve and maintain good dental health, for life.
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