Tips From a General Dentist on Maintaining Oral Health

Regular dental cleanings reduce the risk of developing oral health concerns such as cavities, gum disease and oral infections. However, the majority of oral health care should take place at home, and general dentists can educate their patients on effective ways to care for oral health between check-up visits. 

How to maintain good oral health through at-home care

Every patient should assess their daily routine and oral care routine to ensure they are doing all they can to reduce the risk of oral health and cosmetic issues developing. The following are five tips from a general dentist to help patients practice good oral hygiene each day in order to keep their smiles looking great and healthy. 

Brush, floss and use mouthwash as directed

Good oral health starts with an oral hygiene schedule. This should include proper brushing several times each day. When brushing, be sure to brush all areas of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, cheeks and back of teeth in the back of the mouth. It is important to floss consistently as well. Floss thoroughly, but be sure not to damage the gums in the process. The general dentistsshould provide instructions for how often to use mouthwash, which is typically once each night before bed. 

Reduce the consumption of foods that harm teeth and gums

Foods and drinks that are high in sugar and certain other carbohydrates, along with citrus fruits and tomato-based dishes, can harm teeth and increase the overall risk of dental cavities, oral infections and gum disease. Therefore, limiting the overall sugar intake is encouraged by general dentists. Instead, consider drinking water throughout the day to wash away food and bacteria. 

Protect teeth from damage with a dental guard when necessary

Anyone who plays a contact sport should wear a mouthguard to prevent teeth and gum damage that results from a blow to the face. Also, those who have signs of or are diagnosed with bruxism (teeth grinding at night) should wear a dental guard while they sleep. General dentists can customize a dental guard depending on the specific purpose. 

Check for signs of complications regularly 

General dentists also encourage checking for signs of oral health or cosmetic concerns each day. This includes checking for weakened or eroded enamel, signs of gum disease (red, swollen or bleeding gums) and signs of teeth damage (chips, cracks, etc.). 

Visit the general dentist often for a check-up and cleaning

Lastly, be sure to schedule a check-up visit every four to six months with the general dentist as they are able to detect oral health concerns that you may not be able to see or feel. 

Schedule a consultation visit with our general dentistry team

Our general dentist team takes great pride in helping patients maintain good oral health long-term and keep a beautiful smile. While good oral care at home is important, it is not a substitute for regular dental cleanings and check-ups. Talk to us today if you are in need of a dental visit.  Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office. Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Buford, GA.