Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is important for your overall health and well-being. Cavities, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity can all be very painful and expensive to treat.
However, these common dental issues can often be avoided with good oral hygiene practices.
In this blog post, we’ll look at how to avoid these common dental issues and provide advice on maintaining good oral hygiene.
Cavities
Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are a common dental problem. Cavities are caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque bacteria consume sugar from your diet to produce acid. This acid eats away at the protective coating on your tooth called the tooth enamel and causes decay.
To help prevent cavities from forming, brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth, and limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can also aid in cavity prevention by removing plaque and detecting early signs of decay.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious infection of the gums that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on teeth, which irritates and inflames the gums.
Brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from teeth and gums is essential for preventing gum disease. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can also aid in the killing of bacteria and the prevention of gum disease. A healthy diet and avoiding tobacco products can also help prevent gum disease.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that can cause pain or discomfort when drinking or eating hot or cold foods. Tooth sensitivity is typically caused by worn tooth enamel or exposed root surfaces.
To avoid tooth sensitivity, maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing on a regular basis, to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Avoiding abrasive or whitening toothpastes and using a soft-bristled toothbrush can also help prevent tooth sensitivity. Eating a well-balanced diet and avoiding too many acidic foods and drinks can also aid in the prevention of tooth sensitivity.
Good Oral Hygiene Habits To Follow
In addition to the tips mentioned above, there are a number of other oral hygiene practices and habits that can aid in the prevention of dental problems:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, ensure that you use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush using gentle circular motions.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria build-up from between your teeth and beneath your gum line.
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash can kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Avoid all tobacco products, as these can cause gum disease and tooth loss.
- Consume a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages.
- Drink plenty of water to rinse away bacteria and prevent dry mouth, which can increase your chances of getting cavities and gum disease.
Northcote Dental is dedicated to assisting our patients in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Our skilled dentists and hygienists provide a wide range of dental services, including check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and more.
We also offer advice on oral hygiene practices and habits that can help you avoid common dental problems. Make an appointment with us today to take the first step towards a healthier smile.