It’s that time of year again, when all the fun of the holidays gives way to resolutions made with the best intentions. One especially worthy resolution is to commit to having healthier teeth and gums in 2018. In addition to saving a lot of time and money otherwise spent in the dental chair, you’ll be investing in looking and feeling your best for a lifetime. There are two main components of oral health to think about: teeth and gums. If you’re on board with this resolution, keep reading as a dentist in Lake Forest shows you how you can have a healthier mouth in 2018.
How Can You Protect Your Teeth From Cavities?
The saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, is never more relevant than when it refers to your health. If you’ve had a lot of cavities in the past, you know that you’d rather avoid them in the first place than be forced to take care of them after the fact.
The good news is that there are several easy steps you can take to minimize the amount of dental work you need as much as possible:
- Brushing and Flossing – This is the foundation of good oral health. Brush at least twice per day and floss at least once.
- Routine Checkups – If you’re coming in for cleanings and checkups every six months, you can catch potential problems when they’re small and easier to fix.
- Topical Fluoride – By using a toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride, you’re strengthening your enamel, which goes a long way towards preventing cavities.
- Reducing Sugar Intake – Consuming sugary foods and beverages causes acid to be produced in the mouth, which can dissolve the enamel and lead to decay.
How Can You Maintain Healthy Gums?
Many people focus on keeping their teeth healthy without realizing how crucial it is to have healthy gums as well. The gums and supporting bone are what hold the teeth in place. When these tissues become inflamed and infected, bone loss can occur. This is referred to as gum disease, or periodontal disease. In severe cases, the teeth can become loose and fall out.
There are several risk factors for gum disease. Genetics, diabetes, poor oral hygiene, and smoking can all contribute to this condition. It can be localized to one part of the mouth or affect all of the teeth.
Thankfully, there are simple things you can take to reduce your risk for this disease and help ensure that you’ll hang on to your teeth throughout your entire life. Consistent brushing and flossing, avoiding tobacco, and scheduling a visit with a Lake Forest dentist for a checkup and cleaning are all a great place to start!
About the Author
Drs. Campbell, Schmidt, and Zmick are dedicated to providing outstanding dental care and establishing long-term relationships with all of their patients. Decades of experience and extensive training on the latest dental technology, combined with an excellent chairside manner, all come together to help you achieve your goal of excellent oral health in 2018. They can be reached at (847) 234-4800 or via their website.
