The Importance of Preventative Care
Preventive dentistry is essential for maintaining your oral health and preventing cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and more. Regular visits to the dentist are highly recommended to achieve optimal oral health. Preventive dental care not only reduces the risk of gingivitis, periodontitis, cavities, and other oral health issues, but it also lowers the chances of developing secondary diseases associated with poor oral health. By maintaining good oral health, you can potentially prevent serious health problems like heart disease and diabetes.
How To Brush Your Teeth
1. Please your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.
2. Brush gently in circular motion
3. Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
4. Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.
How to Floss
1. Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and the other finger takes it up as the floss is used.
2. Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between yout teeth.
3. Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.
4. Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.
Other Preventative Measures
Regular Checkups
Schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months for professional teeth cleaning
Dental Sealants
Ask your dentist about dental sealants — protective plastic coatings that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
Mouthguards
If you play sports, ask your dentist about special mouthguards designed to protect
your smile.
Preventative Care in Laurel, MS
At Laurel Oaks Dental, we’re committed to giving you the knowledge and tools you need to maintain your oral health. Call our office now to book an appointment and learn about the best ways to preserve healthy teeth!
Preventive Care FAQs
What is the difference between prevention and treatment?
If you neglect prevention, it will most likely result in treatment. Prevention is steps and habits you implement into your daily life to ensure oral issues do not arise. Treatment is — once an issue is spotted — the care/medication that goes along with making the issue disappear or feel better.
What should I be doing other than brushing and flossing my teeth daily?
Eating a healthy diet is a great way to prevent issues in the future. You can also get a protective layer on your teeth called sealants. If you play a sport or grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouth guard.
What are dental sealants?
A protective layer on your teeth that protects them from cavities and other issues. To learn more about sealants, read here.
Should I be wearing a mouthguard or a nightguard?
If you play contact sports, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard. If you have a tendency to grind your teeth at night, first consult with your dentist. Nightguards, or even Botox, may be recommended to treat teeth grinding.
How can I teach my children how to brush their teeth?
Make it a joint activity! Brush your teeth together and let them replicate how you brush your teeth. Playing a helpful YouTube video for them as they are brushing their teeth can help as well.
Does insurance cover preventative dental care?
If your insurance also covers dental care, your bi-yearly dental exam should be free! Always check with the insurance policy first before coming in for an exam to avoid unexpected costs.
