Maybe you have a tooth giving you trouble – or multiple teeth. Maybe it has been years since you have been to the dentist. Maybe you think you are too busy to go to the dentist every six months, or you suffer from feelings of anxiety or nervousness that keep you away from the dental chair. At Tenaglia Smiles, we believe that it is never too late to make your dental health a priority. We explore that topic in greater detail, today on the blog.
Tooth decay and gum disease are widespread in America
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 90% of American adults have had at least one cavity by the time they are 20 years old, and that half of American adults over the age of 30 will contract the bacterial infection of the gums that leads to gum disease. Gum disease is the primary culprit behind tooth loss among the adult population of the United States. Left untreated, gum disease causes additional problems, including malnutrition, the deterioration of the supporting bone structure and even doubling your risk of cardiac disease.
You can start improving your dental health right away with this regimen.
Brush your teeth twice a day: Just taking a couple of minutes in the morning and at night to brush your teeth is one of your best defenses against tooth decay and gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, gentle circular motions and a toothpaste that contains fluoride – just look for any toothpaste that has the American Dental Association seal on its packaging.
Floss daily: Flossing is an important part of any routine of oral care. Using floss is the only way to clean the narrow spaces between your teeth – spaces that are impossible to reach with a toothbrush. Floss dislodges any food particles from these small spaces between teeth, which otherwise can provide fuel for the bacteria and plaque that cause cavities.
Eat right: The harmful bacteria in your mouth will feed on any sugar that is left to linger on your teeth. This is why it is important to limit the amount of sugar you consume; opt for a diet that includes lean protein, plenty of fresh produce and limit your intake of processed foods. Also drink plenty of water, to keep your mouth hydrated and encourage saliva production.
See your dentist twice a year: The ADA recommends that each of us visits their dentist once every six months for a checkup that includes a dental cleaning and an examination of your teeth and mouth. These regular appointments are crucial both to limit your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, but also because they allow your dentist to maintain a constantly updated record of your oral condition. Furthermore, by seeing your dentist every six months, it makes it easier to identify changes in your teeth and mouth that could be indicators of a problem.
Comprehensive dental care in Okemos, Lansing and East Lansing in Michigan
Has it been a while since you have been to the dentist? Tenaglia Smiles currently is accepting new patients. Dr. Christine Tenaglia has received multiple awards recognizing her as Okemos’ favorite dentist. Dr. Tenaglia and her team of oral health professionals are dedicated to providing the highest level of care to your entire family. To find out more about our services, schedule a consultation today by calling (517) 347-6733 or contacting us online.