The frustrating reality of many severe issues and ailments is the ease with which they could have been prevented using simple measures in the past. This is the case with home repairs, auto maintenance, general health, and oral health.
With upkeep and care, issues like cavities or chips in teeth and minor plaque buildup can be addressed simply and painlessly before they develop into serious problems like tooth decay and gum disease. By taking some simple, straightforward steps, both at home and at your dentist’s office, you can help ensure the effortless radiance of your smile and save yourself a lot of time, money, and physical discomfort in the process!
Today, we’re talking about the importance of preventive dental care!
What Is Preventive Dental Care?
Preventive dental care is a collection of small steps we can take in our daily lives to ensure the long-term health of our teeth, gums, and the structures that support them.
Proper preventive dental care takes a variety of forms. Here are a few of the easiest yet most impactful steps that everyone can (and should) take every day to avoid oral health issues in the future:
- Brushing and flossing. Brushing and flossing twice daily helps fend off bacteria that cause plaque, which can develop into tartar and ultimately lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
- Mouthwash rinses. Antibacterial mouthwash kills residual plaque and tartar on the surfaces of teeth and in hard-to-reach parts of your mouth.
- A healthy diet. Eating a diet loaded with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, in addition to being a great way to maintain your overall health, is an excellent way to combat plaque buildup. On a related note, avoiding foods high in starch and processed sugars makes it harder for plaque-causing bacteria to grow.
- Avoiding tobacco. This one’s pretty simple. Smoking and using smokeless tobacco products increase the risk of gum disease and susceptibility to infection.
- Regular dental visits. Routine checkups and teeth cleanings allow your dentist to monitor the health of your teeth, gums, bite, and jawbone and quickly treat any minor issues before they become serious problems.
Preventive Dentistry in Los Gatos, CA
If you’re looking for a dentist in Los Gatos to help ensure you’re taking every precaution today to prevent serious oral health issues in the future, contact Dr. Nicole Pagonis and the team at Nicole Pagonis, DDS, to schedule an appointment.