For those of us lucky enough to have good teeth, it can be easy to forget how much they help us. If you have bad teeth, you know how much they can impact your quality of life. We offer a range of dental services to help address any complaint, but in most cases maintaining a good oral health regimen can stave off health problems altogether. Here are some basic tips to keep your mouth healthy and happy.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
You’ve probably heard it a hundred times: you should visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning a checkup. People who have had good teeth throughout their life and are diligent about brushing can tend to think of dental visits as unnecessary. Visiting the dentist, however, is more than just brushing your teeth. A dental visit essentially has two parts: a cleaning and an exam.
Cleaning
Teeth cleaning is an essential part of your visit. Even the best patient can’t do as thorough a job as a trained dental hygienist. The hygienist can reach spots it might be easy for you to miss, and special dental instruments can do more than any home brush.
Exam
The exam is at least as important as your cleaning. As with any health issue, catching and problems early will always by the best for ensuring a full recovery. You can probably identify a few problems at home, but visiting the dentist regularly lets us keep an eye out for any less obvious problems. We can also keep track of any problems as they progress in order to develop an effective treatment plan.
Maintain Good Home Hygiene
As important as it is, a dental cleaning comes but twice a year. During the other 363 days, the health of your mouth is up to you. This is why maintaining good hygiene at home is so important. With diligent cleaning, you may even be able to avoid the common dental complaints altogether.
Regular Brushing
Dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day. If possible, brush after every meal. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing
Flossing can be easy to dismiss, but can reach areas even the best toothbrush might miss. Cleaning between your teeth helps prevent cavities and keeps your teeth sharply defined.
Diet
A bad diet can ruin your teeth, and a good diet can turn that around completely. Sugary snacks and drinks taste good but can cause painful cavities. Fresh fruits and vegetables, however, can actually help keep the mouth clean, as well as providing essential nutrients.
Schedule an Appointment
Are you looking for a new general dentist in the greater Chicago area? Consider Drs. Brent Engelberg and Josh Oleari. To schedule an appointment, contact AH Smiles in Arlington Heighs, IL online or at (847) 230-9703.