Building Healthy Habits – How a Family Dentist Can Help With Preventative Dental Care

Preventive dentistry focuses on promoting oral health practices that will prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other ailments. A dentist’s role is to educate patients on adopting good oral hygiene habits, which includes regular brushing and flossing as well as scheduled visits for teeth cleanings and x-rays. Practicing these routines will greatly reduce the risk of developing more serious dental issues down the road, such as gum disease, cavities, and oral cancer.

Brushing and Flossing

For many people, regular brushing and flossing are not enough to keep their teeth clean. Patients who do not practice these two crucial dental care habits are at high risk of developing gingivitis, cavities, and other conditions that can lead to significant pain and discomfort if left untreated. To avoid these problems, it is important to brush and floss regularly, twice per day for two minutes each time.

It is also a good idea to make sure that the mouth is completely free of plaque and tartar build-up, which can cause inflammation in the gums and other parts of the body. A dental professional can remove these deposits with a deep clean, which can help reduce the risk of serious complications in the future.

The Diet

Eating a well-balanced diet can greatly improve oral health. It is important to avoid foods and drinks that are packed with sugar, which encourage bacteria in the mouth to produce acids that destroy tooth enamel. It is also a good idea to eat a variety of nutritious foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Drinking Plenty of Water

Water is the best way to stay hydrated, and it can help eliminate bad breath. In addition, drinking a lot of water can also help reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities.

Limiting Binge Eating

Binge eating is a major cause of weight gain and may also be a sign of an eating disorder. To combat binge eating, it is important to eat slowly and to stop when you are full. It is also helpful to avoid sugary snacks and drinks, such as sodas, even those labelled as diet.

Setting a Good Example

While it is important for each individual to work with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate treatment plan, your local family dentist in Northbrook can help by providing a comprehensive range of treatments and services. The fact that families can see the same dentist for all their oral health needs, from toddlers to seniors, can help simplify the process and reduce travel hassles.

It is also important to note that oral health issues like gum disease and cavities can be very expensive to treat when they are allowed to progress. Regular preventive visits can significantly reduce the risk of these issues and allow patients to seek treatment before it becomes too late. By working with a local Northbrook dentist, patients can learn how to better protect their oral health and establish good habits that will last for life.