Keeping your gums and teeth healthy should be a priority. You should also learn about potential problems that poor hygiene can lead to. The following information will help teach you what you need to know about dental care practices.
Dry Mouth
If you have bad breath and cotton mouth, consider any prescription medicines you take as a possible cause. Without enough saliva, you could be at risk for cavities or pain. Your dentist can help you confirm that your dry mouth is caused by medication. In most cases you can try a different medicine that does not have this side effect. Your dentist can also recommend a dry mouth treatment if it is not possible to change your medication.
Visit your dentist at least two times a year, or follow your dentist’s recommendation. Regular dentist visits will help prevent serious dental issues in the future. Not only that, but you get more comfortable with your dentist and the entire experience. This is important if you ever need dental surgery or another serious procedure.
Your daily dental hygiene regimen is not complete unless you floss at least once a day. Flossing really makes a difference. Gently slide it between the teeth you wish to clean. Gently pull the floss forwards and backwards. You should stop flossing at the gum line, not under the gums. Carefully use the floss to clean both the sides and back of each tooth.
Read the label on your toothpaste. Make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride. Additional ingredients usually contain abrasive elements meant to whiten teeth. If you find your toothpaste is a little too harsh for your gums, try to find one that is labeled as “gentle.”
Keep the tooth if you have one knocked out accidentally. Rinse the tooth gently in order to clean it. If possible, try to put it back into the socket. If not, use milk to soak the tooth in and contact your dental office as soon as possible.
Are your teeth prone to tartar build-up? Make sure you buy a solid mouthwash and toothpaste that helps eliminate tartar. Brush the exterior of your molars and the inside of lower teeth as this is a tartar haven. See a dentist on a regular basis to get rid of the tartar.
Are you hit with a sudden pain sensation when your teeth come in contact with hot or cold foods or drinks? It’s important to let your dentist know that you’re having sensitivity issues, and it’s a good idea to use a toothpaste made for this. Temperature sensitivity can sometimes be a sign of a cavity or inflammation of the nerve. Make sure to get this issue looked at quickly before it becomes a much larger problem.
Ask family and friends if they can suggest a dentist. Getting recommendations straight from people you know can help you learn a lot about a dentist in order to better help you find the best one for you. Also, your friends will be able to tell you about the financial aspects of their dentist.
Don’t take pain that you have in your mouth too lightly! Severe or prolonged pain may be an indication that an infection is present and this needs to be addressed immediately. Call your dentist to discuss the problem right away and set an appointment promptly; infections located in the teeth can travel to the brain if they are untreated.
Taking care of your mouth can keep it healthy. Setting the time aside for learning everything out there about sound hygiene practices allows you to take the initiative. With the solid suggestions above, you can take the worry out of dental care.
