Everyday Preventive Dentistry Tips for Adults

Preventative Dentistry Nacogdoches, TX

The role of preventative dentistry is to minimize the risk of future dental issues in patients. Read on to learn some tips that encourage the prevention of oral issues. If you have experienced and treated dental issues in the past, you will attest that it is better to prevent them from happening in the first place. Patients who receive preventive dentistry treatments are less likely to develop cavities, gum disease, or even experience tooth loss.

Preventive dentistry tips for adults

Many dentists advocate preventive dentistry, but the effectiveness of this approach is dependent on the patient. As an adult, the following tips can help reduce the incidence of oral health issues:

Brush before bedtime

According to the American Dental Association, everyone should brush their teeth twice daily to avoid oral infections. Brushing one's teeth before sleeping, for example, can help minimize plaque accumulation and enamel deterioration. Food particles might become trapped on and between your teeth after eating and before going to bed. Leaving them there all night allows plaque and bacteria to build up, causing tooth decay. Brushing after meals and before sleeping at night helps to avoid this issue.

Floss is also necessary

Although most individuals understand the significance of cleaning their teeth, far too few understand the necessity of flossing for maintaining good oral health. Some adults put off flossing because of discomfort and never get back to it. Putting off flossing is an unhealthy habit that should be broken. Flossing after brushing the teeth helps eliminate the debris caught between the teeth, preventing decay.

Use mouthwash

Mouthwash is a vital aspect of oral healthcare, but many patients believe it is optional. Mouthwash is essential for three significant reasons: it neutralizes acid, remineralizes the teeth, and cleans hard-to-reach areas or crevices. Patients can ask the preventive dentistry professional for recommendations regarding the type of mouthwash to use.

Reduce sugar and acidic foods

All dentists who practice preventive dentistry agree that sugar is unhealthy for the teeth. The reason? The basic answer is that the bacteria in the mouth love sugar and will convert it to acid as they feast. This acid eats away at the tooth enamel, causing erosion. The enamel erodes as people eat more sugar, increasing the chances of developing a cavity. Acidic foods begin to erode the enamel immediately. While it is not feasible to entirely eliminate all of these foods, patients should consume them in moderation.

Avoid using the teeth for unconventional purposes

Some people use their teeth as tools regularly; for breaking nuts, opening bottles, and ripping apart packaging, to mention a few. The teeth may indeed be powerful, but they are not designed for this use, and using them this way will cause chips, fracture, or breakage. Instead, use proper tools for such purposes. Bacteria can easily infiltrate the tooth through a crack, causing infection and abscess that may necessitate a root canal.

Ready to book an appointment?

Visiting your dentist at least twice a year is a critical part of preventive dentistry. The dentist will check the teeth and recommend tips for optimal oral health. Contact our dental office now to schedule your appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.summerenlowdds.com or call Summer Enlow, DDS PC at (936) 314-2347 for an appointment in our Nacogdoches office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Preventative Dental Care in Nacogdoches, TX.

Recent Posts

How Often Do I Need A Teeth Cleaning?

Teeth cleaning is very important for the health of your teeth, gums and mouth. If you do not take proper care of your teeth and gums, it can lead to a variety of problems. But many people are usually not sure how often they should have a dentist clean their teeth. If you are considering…

How Often Is A Dental Cleaning Needed In Preventive Dentistry?

Wondering if it is time for your routine dental cleaning and examinations? One’s dental needs will determine how often they need to undergo dental cleanings. Practicing preventive dentistry is essential when it comes to having a healthy mouth.Knowing how often a routine dental cleaning is necessary because this helps dental patients understand how to experience…

What Does A General Dentist Do?

Wondering if you should choose a general dentist as your next dental professional? Keep in mind that choosing a new dentist is like choosing a new health care professional, as general dentists are your go-to professionals whenever you are in need of any type of dental care. If you need more detailed dental work, then…

3 Benefits Of Having Regular General Dentist Visits

Considering a visit to the General Dentist? It is never a bad idea to undergo dental care. In fact, it is recommended that individuals of all ages regularly visit a general dentist. Most people are keen on visiting the same dentist each time as this allows for familiarity, trust, and security as dentistry can be…

Recent Posts

What To Ask At Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

What To Ask At Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

A cosmetic dentistry consultation is the first step to getting the stunning smile you deserve. Before your consultation appointment, you need to know the issues you want to address, your budget, and the procedures you think will fit your needs. You should make a list of questions you want to ask your dentist during your…

Foods To Avoid With Dental Veneers

Foods To Avoid With Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin custom-made durable shells that are bonded to a tooth’s surface to enhance the appearance of the tooth. Veneers are good options for you if you have uneven, worn down, discolored, misaligned, spaced, chipped or irregularly shaped front teeth. Veneers can help improve the appearance of your teeth and your smile. However,…