When it comes to your oral health, the more you know and understand, the better equipped you are to maintain your teeth and gums. And having the right information can not only help you achieve a healthy, attractive smile but also reduce the amount of dental work you need in the long-term. Keep reading for 4 valuable pieces of information your dentist in Macedonia wants you to have to enjoy great oral health for life.
1. Your Diet Is Incredibly Important
Good brushing and flossing habits at home are the foundation of oral health, but your diet has a huge impact as well. Each time you consume a sugary food or beverage, bacteria in your mouth produce acid that wears away at your enamel and increases your risk for cavities. In addition, too much sugar in general increases your chance of developing Type II diabetes, which is a risk factor for gum disease and subsequent tooth loss.
By combining good oral hygiene habits and regular checkups with a healthy diet, your teeth and gums will stay much healthier.
2. Brushing With the Wrong Technique Can Damage Your Teeth and Gums
Brushing hard seems like it would do a better job, but it can actually lead to gum recession. As the gums “pull back” from the gumline, the roots of the tooth are exposed. And since roots aren’t covered with protective enamel, they’re more easily worn away over time, leading to temperature sensitivity and an increased risk for cavities.
Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for a demonstration of brushing technique at your next checkup. And be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle, circular motion at 45-degrees to the gumline. You may also consider an electric toothbrush that has pressure sensors to let you know if you’re brushing too hard.
3. Dental X-Rays Aren’t As Risky As You Think
X-rays are absolutely essential to help dentists see what they can’t see with their eyes alone, including cavities between the back teeth and underneath existing dental work, infections around the roots of your teeth, and the health of your jawbone and TMJ.
While many people are concerned about radiation, it’s important to know that modern digital X-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional. In fact, it’s estimated that dental X-rays expose you to the same radiation you would get on a sunny day or a short, two hour flight on an airplane.
And since X-rays are so crucial for finding oral health problems, the benefits far outweigh any risks.
4. Gum Disease Is the Leading Cause of Tooth Loss
Many people assume that cavities are the biggest threat to their dental health, but gum disease is actually the #1 cause of tooth loss. Not to mention that it’s been found to increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and even some cancers.
By brushing and flossing at home and seeing a dentist for regular checkups, you can prevent gum disease altogether or manage it to lower these risks. These visits include an annual gum examination to find gum disease in its earliest stages when treatment is most effective.
Although maintaining a healthy smile isn’t complicated, a little know-how certainly makes it easier. With this information, you’ll enjoy great oral health and all the benefits that go with it.
About the Author
Dr. Dan Greenwood is a family dentist in Macedonia with 25 years of experience. He’s a firm believer in the importance of educating his patients and always provides helpful information that enables them to maintain their dental health. If you’d like to know more or have any questions, he can be reached via his website.