Did you know that over 30% of the US population experiences an irrational fear of going to the dentist? Interestingly, this fear more often than not subsides after a recent visit. Regardless of whether or not you enjoy going, there are certain dental care tips that you need to keep in mind to optimize your dental health in-between visits.
Let's take a look at the type of dental care you can do at home before your next dentist appointment.
It should come as no surprise that this is number one on the list.
Flossing is important because it helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, which can cause cavities and gum disease if left unchecked. It's recommended that you floss at least once a day, preferably at night before you go to bed.
Mouthwash can help get to areas that brushing and flossing miss. It's important to choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride in order to help prevent cavities. Swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
You should also look for a mouthwash that contains ingredients that help fight bad breath. Fortunately, it won't be difficult for you to find a brand that does.
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, and it's important to do it properly in order to maximize its effectiveness. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush, and hold the brush at a 45-degree angle against your teeth. Use gentle circular motions to brush the front, top, and back of your teeth.
Be sure to brush your tongue as well!
One of the main culprits behind cavities is sugar. If you want to avoid cavities, it's important to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. This includes candy, cookies, cake, soda, and fruit juices.
Although you don't have to completely cut these out of your diet, you should minimize your consumption of them. This will also go a long way toward improving/maintaining your overall health, especially when it comes to your body weight.
It's important to change your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles start to fray. A new toothbrush will help ensure that your teeth are being properly cleaned.
Getting a new toothbrush only costs a few dollars, and you can often save money by buying two or more at once in a single pack. Many people choose to buy a handful of toothbrushes so that they have extras to swap with as the year goes on.
Smoking is terrible for your oral health, as well as your overall health. It's one of the leading causes of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Smoking also increases your risk of developing oral cancer.
If you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, it's important to quit smoking. Unfortunately, this is much easier said than done for most people. While not everybody experiences immense difficulty when quitting smoking, it can feel impossible for some.
Regardless of how you have to handle this situation, it's crucial that you do so as soon as possible.
If you notice anything out of the ordinary with your teeth or gums, it's important to see a dentist as soon as you can. This includes bleeding gums, redness/swelling, tooth pain, and changes in your bite. These could be signs of an underlying dental issue that needs to be addressed.
Even if you brush, floss, and use mouthwash regularly, it's still important to see a dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.
This is because dentists can spot issues that you may not be able to see or feel. They can also provide professional cleanings that are more effective than what you can do at home.
Most dental insurance plans cover two check-ups and cleanings per year, so there's no excuse not to go.
When you're looking for a new dentist, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you want to make sure that they're qualified and have experience. You can usually find this information on their website or by asking them directly.
It's also important to make sure that they accept your dental insurance. If they don't, you may have to pay out of pocket for your appointments, which can get expensive. For example, getting a root canal could cost over $1,000, and you will be left to pay this bill on your own.
Finally, you want to choose a dentist that you feel comfortable with. This is important because you'll be trusting them with your oral health.
If you don't feel like they're qualified or if you're not comfortable with them, it's probably best to find someone else. Finding a dentist that you are comfortable with will also go a long way toward alleviating any fear you may have of dental visits.
Dental care is crucial for maintaining good oral health. By following these tips, you can help keep your teeth healthy in-between visits to the dentist. You will also avoid issues that you may have otherwise encountered.
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