While dental visits are essential to good oral hygiene, you also need to take care of your teeth in between appointments. If you’re unsure about the best approach, your dentist can explain all about brushing your teeth. They can tell you the best thing to brush your teeth with based on your mouth’s needs. Some people have sensitive gums and need softer toothbrushes. If this is you, your dentist can tell you. You should also know the best way to clean between teeth so that plaque doesn’t build up there. Flossing is a great option, but your dentist might have others.

If you know to brush and the best time to brush your teeth, you’ll have a better chance of keeping your mouth clean and attractive. However, some things are out of your control. If you want to fix your teeth in more advanced ways, you’ll need a cosmetic dental service. This is another thing you should discuss with your dentist. They can help you figure out what you need and the best way for you to get it.

You’re supposed to visit the dentist at least once per year. As it stands…most people don’t.

This leaves you in a bad spot when it comes to managing cavities, the onset of periodontal disease and the potential of an impacted wisdom tooth. If you’re worried about your oral health and are even starting to experience chronic headaches or gum sensitivity, it’s time to reach out to dentists in your area for a check-up. From a teeth cleaning to remove any lingering bacteria to an x-ray to spot unseen cavities, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your oral health.

Did You Know?

Americans care deeply about a beautiful smile. That doesn’t mean many aren’t actively concerned about the look of their teeth. Over 30% of American adults in a recent survey admitted they are worried about their oral health. The American Public Health Association estimated around 10 million wisdom teeth being extracted from five million people every year. Teeth whitening procedures is on the rise and represents one of the fastest growing elements of the dental field, with whitening treatments often requested alongside basic dental care or extractions.

Tooth Replacement

Sometimes there’s no saving the tooth. Tooth replacement can ensure you will eat and talk just like you used to. It’s estimated around three million people in the country have dental implants in place, with this number growing by nearly 500,000 every year. Over 15 million people also have crown or bridge replacements for missing teeth. Dental implants are designed to mimic a natural human tooth as closely as possible in both function and appearance.

Gum Disease

While this condition is often minor, it can cause a lot of frustration and eventually become a major problem if left to fester. Gum disease frequently erupts in the form of gingivitis or periodontal disease, both infections of the gum that lead to sensitivity when brushing, excessive bleeding and gradual swelling near the tooth. Periodontal disease is very common among American adults and is caused by a lack of day-to-day hygiene. The average dentist will recommend you brush and floss twice daily after your meals. Toothpaste with a high fluoride count will work better than a conventional teeth whitening brand.

Multiple Cavities

Cavities are common among children and adults. The World Health Organization (shortened to WHO) has estimated anywhere from 60% to 90% of school children bear at least one cavity. When it comes to stateside, the American Dental Hygienist’s Association (or ADHA) reported nearly 80% of American adults have had at least one cavity by the time they’re 17 years old. Cavities are caused by a general lack of upkeep and can worsen into a root canal if not supplemented with a filling within a certain time frame. While minor throbbing and sensitivity to cold or hot food is common, stabbing pains are signs of deeper damage and should be looked at immediately.

Receiving Your Basic Dental Care

Whether you’re in a good spot health-wise or are suspecting you have a deeper issue, a trip to the dentist will make sure you’re good to go. For every individual with medical insurance in the country it’s estimated there are three who are without basic dental care. Many dental clinics offer sliding scale discounts for those with lower monthly incomes to ensure that basic needs are met. This includes yearly teeth cleanings, fillings and sometimes x-rays. While tooth replacement can seem like an extreme option, the pain relief and hastened recovery are well worth the effort.

Instead of leaving your health to chance speak with your local dentist about a check-up and possible tooth replacement procedure.