Set a priority to improve your oral health. One key aspect of maintaining healthy teeth and gums is scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings. Learn more about the importance of dental exams and cleanings and refresh your dental routine in 3 easy steps.
1. Schedule Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings
Regular dental exams and cleanings can help you maintain good oral health. During a dental exam, your dentist will check for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues. They will also perform a thorough cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
By scheduling routine exams and cleanings, you can prevent oral health problems before they escalate. Make an appointment with your dentist for a comprehensive dental exam and cleaning. During your appointment, communicate any concerns and ask for dental health recommendations.
- Inform your dentist of any pain or discomfort in your mouth, gums, or teeth so they can address any underlying issues.
- Your dentist may suggest additional treatments, like fluoride treatments or dental sealants, to help protect your teeth and gums. Consider a professional fluoride application to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
- Stick to a Routine Dental Cleaning and Exam Schedule. Visit your dentist for exams and cleanings every six months for healthy teeth and gums.
- Patients at risk of dental disease may need more frequent checkups.
Our dental hygiene services include professional teeth cleaning and oral health exams. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar to benefit oral health. Dental exams determine if you need deep dental cleaning or treatments. Following your dental
exam, we will suggest an oral health plan that includes steps to enhance your daily dental care and other services to improve your teeth.
Deep dental cleanings may be recommended. Scaling and polishing can help remove plaque and eliminate stains sticking to teeth. Root planing removes plaque and tartar from the root surface and between teeth and gums. Your dentist will discuss the tooth scaling and root planing process to let you know what to expect.
2. Refresh Your Daily Dental Hygiene
Spring into an improved dental care routine. Daily dental hygiene helps minimize oral health risks like gingivitis, cavities, and gum recession. Here are some tips to kickstart your dental hygiene routine for healthy teeth and gums:
- Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day for two minutes. Floss once daily. Oral hygiene can prevent cavities and remove food particles and plaque between teeth.
- Replace your toothbrush: The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months or more often if the bristles become matted or frayed.
- Use a mouthwash: Swishing daily with mouthwash can help kill oral bacteria and freshen your breath. There are many reasons you should use mouthwash every day. The active ingredients in mouthwash kill bacteria, clean and whiten teeth, help prevent gum disease, and freshen breath.
Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing are vital for an oral hygiene routine. The American Dental Association suggests flossing daily to remove hidden plaque. Flossing fights gum disease, promotes confident smiles and prevents periodontitis to safeguard heart and respiratory health.
3. Cut Out Habits that Hurt Your Dental Health
Reduce your intake of food high in sugars or acids. Eat food that is good for your teeth and gums. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Eliminate your intake of sugar in drinks. Replace them with water. Drinking water can help wash away food debris and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and rinse with water or use a water flosser after meals.
Avoid tobacco products. Smoking and using other tobacco products can increase your risk of developing oral health problems. These dental issues include gum disease and oral cancer.
Spring Clean Your Smile
Regular dental exams and cleanings play a vital role in maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. By caring for your teeth and gums, you can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years.
Prioritize oral health and schedule a visit to Three Rivers Dental Group for a comprehensive exam and cleaning. If you’ve delayed dental checkups, contact us to schedule a professional dental cleaning. Call us by phone or request an appointment online for convenient and affordable dental services for confident smiles. Our dental offices are located throughout the Pittsburgh area in Cranberry, Greentree, Greensburg, and Jennerstown.