subject: Why Daily Tooth Care Is Important [print this page] To maintain your overall health, you have a variety of responsibilities. One of the most important is to take care of your teeth and gums. To effectively keep your teeth clean of plaque and decay it is important for you to Talk to your Springfield dentist about how to take care of your teeth and gums. He or she will be able to recommend tips and treatments for achieving optimal oral health.
Daily Oral Care At Home
Your responsibility to take care of your teeth and gums begins at home. Although daily brushing and flossing may seem mundane, they are essential to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
Follow these instructions for keeping your teeth and gums clean and you will be able to keep your mouth healthy and avoid inconvenient dental problems in the future:
*You should brush your teeth at least twice per day, preferably after meals. Give yourself enough time to do a thorough job when you brush.
*Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. You may also want to use an electric toothbrush for optimal results.
*Hold the toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth. Use short back-and-forth motions to clean all of your teeth. Try not to use too much force as this can cause bleeding of your gums.
*Replace your toothbrush about every three to four months or when the bristles are worn down. This will ensure that your brush remains effective at cleaning the plaque from your teeth.
*Floss every day to clean the area in between your teeth. You cannot reach in between your teeth with a toothbrush so it is important to floss to stop the buildup of plaque in these areas.
Visiting Your Springfield Dentist
In addition to daily flossing and brushing, it is also important for you to visit your dentist in Springfield for regular cleanings and examinations. Although brushing and flossing are very effective at removing plaque from your teeth, there are certain areas that only your dentist is able to clean using special techniques and dental equipment. In addition, performing a thorough examination of your teeth will allow your dentist to spot any potential problems before they become more serious. If a problem is caught early on, it will almost certainly be easier and cheaper to deal with then if you wait until it becomes serious to visit your dentist. Talk to your dentist if you begin to experience any of these symptoms:
*Loss of permanent teeth.
*Red, tender or swollen gums.
*Sensitivity to heat or cold.
*Unusually bad breath or constant bad taste in your mouth.
*Gums that bleed easily.
*Change in alignment of teeth or bite.
To learn more about the importance of daily oral care or to schedule an appointment, contact your Springfield dentist today.
