As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. This rings true when it comes to dental health, too. Taking care of your teeth and gums through a routine of preventative dentistry can spare you from the discomfort of dental issues like bad breath, cavities, gum disease, and more severe conditions. Here at Dr. Brian D. Valle, P.A., we believe that every patient deserves excellent dental care. We’ll provide you with exceptional Millersville preventative dentistry so you can keep your smile healthy and bright.
Practice good oral hygiene.
The foundation of preventative dentistry is proper brushing and flossing. Brush your teeth two or three times a day with fluoride toothpaste. Remember to brush your tongue, too, as it can harbor bacteria. Flossing is also essential to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth that your toothbrush may not reach. Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing for extra freshness. We recommend a fluoride rinse if you’re prone to cavities.
Eat healthily.
What you eat affects your entire body, including your mouth. A diet rich in fiber, calcium, and vitamins contributes to healthy teeth and gums. Conversely, a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates leads to tooth decay and gum disease. Cut down on sugary drinks and snacks, like candy, soda, and sports drinks. Instead, opt for water, milk, and fruits and vegetables. If you indulge in sugary foods, brush your teeth afterward to reduce your risk of cavities.
Visit your dentist regularly.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months help keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you have dental implants or orthodontic treatments, you may need to see your dentist more frequently. Dr. Brian Valle can evaluate your oral health, including checking for cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Cleaning by a dental hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth.
Protect your teeth.
Toothbrushes and dental floss are not the only tools in preventative dentistry. Other measures can help protect your teeth from injury and wear. These measures can help protect your teeth from fractures, chips, and other forms of damage.
Wear a mouthguard while playing sports or engaging in activities that could cause trauma to your mouth. You can ensure maximum protection and comfort by having a mouthguard specifically designed for your teeth and mouth. Using a generic or poorly fitting mouthguard can result in serious dental injuries. Investing in a custom-fit mouthguard tailored to fit your unique oral anatomy is essential. Not only will it protect your teeth from damage, but it will also make breathing and speaking easier during even the most intense of activities.
Wear a nightguard while you sleep if you tend to grind your teeth. If you’re waking up with a sore jaw or experiencing headaches, you may be grinding your teeth at night. While teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common problem, it can lead to serious dental issues such as chipped or cracked teeth, gum recession, and even tooth loss. The good news is that a dental nightguard can effectively protect your teeth and alleviate discomfort.
Keep abreast of dental health knowledge.
Preventative dentistry changes over time to include updated oral care techniques and technologies. Keep up with the latest advancements in dental health to ensure that you’re taking the most effective and up-to-date steps for caring for your teeth. Follow dental health blogs or seek advice from your dentist to stay informed on how to protect your oral health best.
Millersville Preventative Dentistry
Preventative dentistry is the best way to maintain oral health and avoid the discomfort of dental issues. Good oral hygiene, healthy food choices, regular check-ups, protection of your teeth, and staying ahead of the curve when it comes to dental health knowledge all contribute to excellent dental health. Remember, your smile is unique and deserves the best care.
We hope this guide to preventative dentistry helps you achieve healthy, beautiful teeth and gums for years to come. If you have any questions about your oral health or would like to schedule a cleaning, please get in touch with us at Dr. Brian Valle, P.A. In addition to preventative dentistry, we offer cosmetic dentistry in Millersville, Maryland, family dentistry, and much more!
