Dental Care Recommendations for Adults

Effective dental care carries a host of benefits that range from oral health to cost savings. This should be a great motivator to get into good oral habits. There is another relatable reason why you should pursue good oral health.

General dentists spend much of their time providing first-line dental care. This includes preventative care like periodic dental exams. First-line dental care also includes the use of fillings, crowns, and other restorations to repair tooth decay or injury. Even people without a fear of the dentist would prefer the option without needles. Here is what you need to do to maintain healthy, problem-free teeth:

The different aspects of dental care

Dental care is more than just brushing and flossing daily. While oral hygiene is the most important aspect of dental care, it is not the only one. There are different ways to ensure that the teeth, gums, and soft tissues of the mouth remain in good health:

• Good oral hygiene
• A healthy diet that is low on sugar and refined carbohydrates
• Avoidance of smoking and excessive drinking
• Protective mouth gear for people who play sports
• People who deal with teeth grinding should get a night guard to protect their teeth
• Routine dental checks to monitor oral health

The next section details each measure and explains its benefits for both short and long-term oral health.

1. Oral hygiene tips

Good oral hygiene prevents the accumulation of plaque in the short term and the formation of tartar in the long term. This measure denies harmful bacteria a staging ground to attack the teeth and gums.

The good news is that keeping the mouth clean is as simple as brushing in the morning and at bedtime. Use a toothbrush with flexible bristles to brush for at least two minutes. This is enough time to target every surface of each tooth in the mouth. Flossing once a day removes plaque from the sides of the teeth, where a toothbrush may be unable to reach. Anyone that can brush their teeth after each meal should do just that.

2. Diet

A nutrient-rich diet provides the vitamins and minerals that maintain the teeth and the structures that support them. It also helps to be deliberate about fluoride intake. This is why many water companies add fluoride to their water, which supplies the teeth with supplies to reinforce the enamel. Minerals like calcium and magnesium are also good for the teeth and the bones that anchor them. Sugar and carbohydrates should be kept to a minimum. Harmful bacteria love sugar, and they use it to make acid that eats away at the enamel.

3. Smoking, drinking, and stains

Smoking is bad for the lungs, the teeth, and for fresh breath. It also stains the teeth and increases the chances of tartar. In fact, people who smoke are more likely than non-smokers to develop gum disease. Like smoking, excessive drinking affects oral health as well as the appearance of the teeth. Avoiding certain lifestyle choices goes a long way to ensure good oral health.

4. Protective measures

Appliances like mouth guards protect the mouth from injury during certain sports. Nightguards also protect the teeth of people who deal with bruxism.

Top it all off with periodic dental checkups

It is always a good idea to get a second set of eyes on your teeth and gums. Our dentist is happy to take a look at your mouth, just to check that your mouth is in good shape. The dentist is happy to use their experience as a first-line dental care provider to your benefit. Get in touch with us and book an appointment at a time that works for you.

Request an appointment here: https://princewilliamdental.com or call Prince William Dental at (703) 662-8287 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Routine Dental Care in Gainesville, VA.