Developing a good oral care routine is a key component to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Effective routines include such habits as brushing teeth twice each day and visiting the dentist’s office regularly for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning. Maintaining proper oral care can prevent gum disease, cavities, and other threats to oral health. Dr. Roger Flake, the experienced dentist at our office in Mill Creek, WA, can assist you with developing an effective oral care routine that includes regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Effective Habits at Home
Developing effective habits at home plays a critical role in promoting healthy teeth and gums. For the prevention of cavities, it is important to brush teeth at least twice every day using a fluoride-containing toothpaste. When brushing, using a toothbrush with soft bristles is best. Additionally, it is important to brush gently. Aggressive brushing can be harsh on teeth and gums and cause the gums to recede and toot enamel to wear away. Flossing once a day is also beneficial and makes it possible to more thoroughly clean between teeth.
Another effective habit to develop for maintaining a healthy mouth is to avoid or limit the amount of sugary foods and beverages in the diet. When sugars react with bacteria in the mouth, acids are produced. These acids can erode tooth enamel, leaving teeth vulnerable to infection and decay. Avoiding or quitting smoking is another way to maintain a healthier mouth. Chronic smoking is associated with a higher risk for developing gum disease and gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
Checkups and Cleanings
Visiting the dentist at our office in Mill Creek, WA, regularly for an oral exam and professional cleaning can help you achieve optimal oral health. Regular checkups with the dentist make it possible to detect oral health issues early on before they progress. Treating problems early can prevent them from becoming worse or causing other issues.
The professional teeth cleanings that are part of your dental checkups are also vital to achieving healthier teeth and gums. Tartar buildup cannot be cleaned off teeth simply by brushing and flossing at home. A professional dental cleaning is the only way to completely remove tartar buildup. Removing it regularly is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
A good oral care routine keeps teeth and gums healthy and can prevent various oral health problems, such as cavities and gum disease. To schedule a dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Flake, our skilled dentist, call our office in Mill Creek, WA, at (425) 338-2966.
