There is one surefire way to enjoy your next dental cleaning: Take care of your teeth. It sounds so easy but oral health is actually rather complex which is why regular cleanings are so important.
What A Dental Cleaning Does That You Can’t
No one really likes to think about it but there is millions of bacteria in our mouths right this very second. Brushing is essential to remove these microorganisms but they return in just a few hours. The build-up of these bacteria is what forms plaque. In just a matter of days that plaque can harden to become tarter which then adheres itself to the surface of your teeth. They only way to remove plaque is with dental scaling—you know that pick the hygienist uses to scrape your teeth—performed by your hygienist. It is the part of a dental cleaning most people report to hate but it is also so easy to prevent by simply brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to keep the bacteria to a minimum.
First Line Of Defense
Aside from the work the dental hygienist does to keep your teeth clean, she or he is also your first line of defense for your health. The hygienist will also be able to give you product recommendations and tips to increase your dental hygiene based on your current oral health. The hygienist is also the first to alert your dentist to potential problems with your oral health. If you have noticed any changes to your mouth and teeth you should discuss them with the hygienist. She or he will examine your mouth for signs of infection, gum disease, and even oral cancer. Poor dental hygiene is linked to diseases such as heart disease, some cancers, and dementia.
Tips For A Successful Cleaning
- Change your toothbrush—Every 2-4 months you should change the head on your electric brush or buy a new manual brush.
- Don’t forget your tongue—Stick your tongue out. Look at all those tiny spaces for bacteria to hide. Brush or scrape you tongue each time you brush. Use a good alcohol-free mouth rinse.
- Be a great flosser—Make a game out of it if you have to. Just do it because the more you do the easier it becomes. Most cavities start in between teeth because it is harder to clean in between.
- Watch your diet—Most people know sugar is bad for their teeth. However there are good foods to eat to improve your dental health. A diet rich in phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium is best for strong healthy teeth. Good examples are: cheese, chicken, nuts, and milk. Crunchy vegetables are also great.
- Stay hydrated—Too many Americans are chronically dehydrated. A dry mouth breeds extra bacteria so drink up.
At St. George Smiles our friendly hygienists are eager to help allay your fears and offer your great tips to improve your dental health.