This month is all about oral health and oral cancer awareness and our team at South Springs Dental Group could think of no greater service than to compile a list of our best practices for great dental health. We all live busy lives, but committing to our health – and our dental health – will not only contribute to longer life but will save us money down the road in unnecessary dental costs. As you read our latest blog, keep in mind that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Get on the Right Track
Nearly 70% of all American adults brush their teeth twice per day – but that isn’t nearly enough. The American Dental Association and dentists worldwide recommend brushing your teeth twice per day for at least two minutes each time. For the 30% that isn’t doing this, it is time to get on the right track. Brushing your teeth is a quick and easy habit that can prevent serious dental and oral diseases, including oral cancer. For the 70% that is brushing – great job, but there’s more you can do!
- The Right Stuff. Make sure you are brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush. While it may seem like a stiffer brush will remove plaque better, medium to hard-bristled brushes can actually cause permanent enamel damage. In addition, be sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen your teeth and protect the surface of your teeth from decay.
- Floss. Bacteria can get stuck in between our teeth. Even if you are brushing twice per day, if you are missing bacteria in between teeth, then you are still putting yourself at risk of frequent cavities and tooth decay.
Say ‘No’ in the Name of Dental Health
In addition to the habits we can form to take our dental game to the next level, there are habits that we also need to break.
- Smoking. This month is not only oral health awareness, but it is also oral cancer awareness, and the leading cause of these types of cancer is tobacco use. By smoking or using chewing tobacco, you are putting yourself at a much higher risk of disease – oral, throat, lung, and even heart disease. Do yourself a favor and put an end to it.
- Sugar. Something most people don’t consider is that sugar and tobacco are both very similar. Sugar is also deadly – causing diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, infertility, kidney issues, and much more. For your teeth, however, it is much worse. Sugar can cause severe tooth decay, periodontitis, and tooth loss. If you are addicted to that afternoon soda, exchange it for water and you will notice your health start to improve. Your teeth will thank you!
See Your Dentist
The number one way to keep a healthy mouth? We are glad you asked. It is recommended that you see your dentist at least twice per year for a routine cleaning, exam, and set of x-rays. At this appointment, the dentist will be able to detect and diagnose any issues that may need immediate treatment and recommend preventive procedures to avoid more serious issues later. In addition, they will screen for oral cancer.
Seeing a dentist may seem like a hassle, but at South Springs Dental Group, we make it easy to schedule online. The best part? We can treat your whole family! Our team would love to care for your teeth and renew your smile and optimize your dental health.