Why Worry About Preventative Dentistry

Preventative dentistry is the practice of caring for your teeth to keep them healthy. This helps to avoid more extensive and expensive procedures in the future. Taking care of your teeth not only fights bad breath, it can also prevent cavities, gum disease, and contribute to a healthy set of pearly whites.

What Does Preventative Dentistry Entail?

Daily Brushing and Flossing

Brushing daily allows you to remove the sugar, acids or harmful contaminants and bacteria that can build up on our teeth. Removing plaque daily helps to stop long-term negative effects on our teeth and gums. It helps to remove trapped food and using toothpaste with fluoride provides added protection for teeth. It is important to remember to also brush your tongue!

Flossing is a very important element that helps to avoid food debris and plaque from getting stuck in between teeth and causing infection or decay, particularly in the areas that the toothbrush can’t reach.

Regular Exams and Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings aren’t just for keeping your smile bright; they can have a significant impact on your general health. Insufficient oral hygiene has been linked to several serious illnesses. Associated medical and dental issues include bone loss, cardiovascular disease, strokes, cancers, and many other problems. Brushing and flossing at home are essential, but to ensure teeth are healthy and thoroughly clean, you should schedule regular check-ups with your dentist and annual dental cleanings with your dental hygienist. The dental hygienist removes bacteria in the mouth by removing the soft plaque and hard debris (calculus) on the teeth. This reduces inflammation and bleeding in the mouth. Gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are treated through regular teeth cleanings and good care at home.

Adjusting Your Diet

Ensuring a healthy, balanced diet that is not high in sugar, acidic or carbonated drinks can help maintain healthy teeth and a healthy mouth. As well, avoiding drinks such as coffee, tea and wine can minimize teeth staining. Drink plenty of water as well as consume enough vitamins and minerals that promote bone and oral health.

There are endless benefits to preventative dentistry. It is important to remember that maintaining good oral hygiene helps to reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth and avoid illnesses that can affect your health and body as a whole. Dr.Gaultier offers a variety of dental services for our patients, take a look here to book an appointment.