No Insurance? No problem! Join our Smile Club Insurance today, and get started with no waiting period Learn More
Preventative Dentistry In San Antonio, TX 78201
What is preventative dentistry?
Preventative dentistry practices are the acts we participate in that keep our teeth and mouth healthy. This includes yearly checkups with your dentist as well as daily oral care habits. Additionally, it includes any procedures that need to be done to prevent further damage from occurring.
This practice helps prevent the wear away of enamel, reduce the likelihood of gum disease, and more. Keep reading to learn more!
Why is preventative dentistry important?
Preventive dentistry helps keep the teeth and mouth clean. When you lack proper oral hygiene, you are more likely to end up having severe oral health complications down the line. For example, brushing your teeth twice/day helps prevent cavities. Cavities, when left untreated, can lead to root canals or whole tooth replacements.
Preventative dentistry helps prevent such circumstances from occurring. It can also aid in catching oral health concerns like enamel wear early. Additionally, preventive dentistry can assist in the diagnosis of other health concerns like diabetes!
Who benefits from preventative dentistry?
Whether you’re 6 months old or 60 years old, preventative dentistry can benefit your oral health. In young ones, preventative dentistry can help detect any early-onset oral health concerns. Your dentist will check your little one’s mouth out to ensure his or her gums look healthy, any first teeth are coming in properly, and that the tongue is pink and plump!
As you get older, preventative dentistry helps identify any teeth and mouth concerns such as teeth that haven’t come in yet or crooked teeth. They can refer you to specialists such as orthodontists if needed as well.
How can I practice preventative dentistry?
There is no shortage of preventative dentistry practices that you could partake in!
Brush your teeth
This may go without saying but brushing your teeth twice daily with toothpaste is the ideal preventative dentistry practice! Ask your dentist for a recommended toothpaste option. Remember, the ADA recommends switching your toothbrushes at least 2x per year as bristles become hard and this can damage your gums.
Floss
Flossing removes stuck food and grime from between your teeth and along the gum line. This practice helps prevent cavities from forming as well as reducing the likelihood of gum disease! You should floss at least once per day, but twice is recommended. Always floss after large meals or if you feel something stuck between your teeth. You want to remove the object as soon as possible!
Have regular dentist check ups
Just as you would see a medical doctor, seeing your dentist once or twice per year is ideal in preventing oral health problems. During your visits to your dentist, you’ll have your teeth thoroughly cleaned, flossed, and examined. Sometimes you may also receive a fluoride treatment for strengthening enamel!
Eat well!
Try your best to avoid overly sugary foods as sugar can break down enamel and cause cavities. Additionally, steer clear of anything chewy or sticky as these foods stick to your teeth (even when you can’t feel it). The ADA also recommends avoiding hard candies, or at least not biting into them, as this can cause chipped teeth!
Final Thoughts
Preventative dentistry helps keep your mouth clean and your teeth and gums healthy. You should see your dentist 1-2x per year as well as practice preventative dentistry techniques at home!