How to Prevent Dental Problems
While Dr. Bruce Wilderman can treat all sorts of dental problems, prevention is always the best policy. The team at our Philadelphia, PA area dental center often notices that many restorative dentistry procedures could have been avoided if patients took better care of their teeth and gums.
With that in mind, let’s offer a few tips on how you can prevent dental problems from developing. This advice could mean fewer cavities, and possibly protect you from losing a tooth if not multiple teeth.
Proper Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is always a smart first step when it comes to preventing serious dental health issues. Brushing and flossing helps fight cavities and gum disease, and it keeps your mouth fresh and healthy.
Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss at least once a day. Ideally, you want to brush and floss after every meal. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head and a toothpaste that contains no abrasive ingredients.
Eating the Right Foods
You are what you eat, and your smile is ultimately as good as your diet. We encourage patients to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These are all excellent sources of essential vitamins and minerals. Consider something akin to the Mediterranean diet for optimal dental health and general wellness. Supplements may be recommended to help ensure a complete diet.
Avoiding Tobacco Products
We often tell our patients from the greater Philadelphia area to avoid smoking and the use of chewing tobacco. These products increase your risk of developing oral cancer, serious dental stains, and plenty of other health problems. In addition, tobacco products increase your risk of developing gum disease and experiencing tooth loss. For the best dental health, kick the habit for good.
Reduce Your Sugar Intake
Related to dietary concerns, it’s a good idea to reduce your intake of added sugar. Too much sugar can increase your risk of tooth decay and may also contribute to other dental health problems. Again, stay away from junk food and aim for healthier alternatives.
Reduce Your Consumption of Soda
Soft drinks are bad for a number of reasons. The excess sugar in sodas can lead to tooth decay. Even diet sodas have serious issues, increasing oral acidity and leading to a heightened risk of enamel erosion. On top of that, colas and dark-colored soda pop can stain your smile. Go easy on the soda. If you do have a soft drink occasionally, use a drinking straw to minimize the damage done.
Wear Mouth and Face Protection
Blows to the face and mouth can lead to tooth loss, injuries to the gums, and other serious oral trauma. This is why we recommend wearing face and mouth protection when warranted. A mouth guard is great for athletes in all sorts of sports. Helmets are essential in contact sports. Face masks and shields are ideal for working with power tools or industrial equipment. Be safe rather than sorry.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Checkups
Seeing your dentist twice a year for regular checkups is crucial for fighting dental problems before they become major issues. Be sure to schedule an exam every six months to keep your teeth and gums in great health.
Learn More About Good Dental Health
For more information about preventing dental health problems and fighting tooth decay and gum disease, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic and restorative dentist. You can Artistic Expressions Dentistry in the Philadelphia area by calling (215) 712-8258.
