Visiting the dentist for your check-ups is vitally important to your oral health, but there’s something else that’s even more important: your at-home oral hygiene regimen. Yes, that’s right! While your dentist needs to perform an exam and a hygienist gives a professional cleaning, what you do every day at home is the most effective way to prevent tooth decay. AH Smiles is committed to helping our Arlington Heights, IL patients have the best oral health.
The Best At-Home Regimen For Healthy Teeth Includes:
Brush your teeth twice a day
We’ve all heard how important it is to brush our teeth twice a day, and for good reason. An American Dental Association (ADA)-approved toothpaste and toothbrush removes plaque from the teeth. It’s important to brush twice a day, once at night to remove plaque from the day, and once in the morning to remove the plaque that built up while you slept.
Floss every day
Oral bacteria don’t just coat the front or back of the teeth: they work their way into the tiny spaces between them, too. Flossing actually disrupts bacterial colonies, preventing them from building up in the areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Lack of flossing can lead to cavities between the teeth, which are harder to treat.
Rinse After Eating
Plaque never stops building up. Oral bacteria feed on the food we eat and form plaque, but rinsing your mouth with water between meals (and staying hydrated) helps protect your teeth against this buildup. You can also add a mouthwash to your daily routine to protect against gum disease.
When Do I Need A Dentist?
The ADA recommends dental checkups every six months, where a hygienist will perform a thorough cleaning and a dentist will examine your mouth, throat, head, and neck to identify any problems before they become more difficult to treat.
If you are experiencing uncontrolled bleeding, unusual symptoms in the mouth, or tooth pain, visit your dentist quickly. Treating problems early is much easier, and it’s better to be proactive.
Arlington Heights, IL Dentist
Dr. Engelberg offers comprehensive dental care to people of all ages. Contact our Arlington Heights dental office online or by phone at (847) 230-9703 today to schedule an appointment.