Is it Time to Revamp Your Dental Routine?

It’s easy to continue doing the same old thing when it comes to your dental routine. Are you doing the same steps as you did when you were 16? If it’s been a while since you’ve switched up your dental routine, here’s what a proper routine looks like. 

Why a Proper Dental Routine is Important

Your dental hygiene is not only important to protect your teeth and gums, but it’s also important for your overall health. Dental hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy to prevent disease. If you’re not taking care of your teeth now, you risk serious and costly dental problems in the future. 

Common Dental Problems 

The Center for Disease control lists the most common dental health problems caused due to lack of proper hygiene: tooth decay and periodontal disease. 

Tooth decay

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is a common problem that affects children and adults alike. No matter your age, cavities can cause pain and other problems that can affect your quality of life. Cavities are small holes in the teeth that can make your teeth incredibly sensitive to temperatures, sweets, and more. 

Periodontal disease

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is an infection caused by bacteria under the gum tissue that, if left untreated, can begin to destroy the gums and bone. Once this happens, your teeth can loosen, making it difficult to chew. In serious cases, these loose teeth might have to be pulled out. Additionally, gum disease has been linked to other infections throughout the body. People with gum disease have been shown to have a higher chance of being diagnosed with diabetes or cardiovascular problems.

Both of these problems can be avoided in most cases with proper dental hygiene, which is why having a set and strict routine is important. You have the power to prevent these conditions, so start now! 

Steps to Include in a Proper Dental Routine

If you need to reset your dental hygiene routine, Stonebrook Family Dental is here to help you. Follow these steps to set your smile up for success!

1.See Your Dentist

First and foremost, see your dentist. Especially if it has been a while since your last appointment. This can help catch any problems that may have developed. Further, you’ll receive a deep cleaning to help reset your mouth. If any problems are found, the dentist will be able to direct you on how to adjust your at-home care accordingly. 

2.Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

The next important step in your dental hygiene routine is to brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and then again before you go to sleep. When you brush, move in small circles all along your teeth and really focus on the gum line too. Additionally, don’t neglect your tongue. Being sure to brush all parts of your mouth will really ensure a clean mouth. 

3.Floss Once a Day

Flossing is tedious, but it’s a step you shouldn’t skip. Most of us eat three meals a day, which means food has a chance to get stuck between your teeth up to three times a day. Dental floss is very thin, making it easy to wedge it in-between teeth where small pieces of food can get stuck. Like brushing, flossing helps control the amount of bacteria in your mouth that can cause things like cavities and gum disease. 

4.Use Fluoride 

Did you know fluoride is naturally found in things like rocks and soil? Fluoride is a good way to help protect your teeth from decay. Mouth Healthy from the American Dental Association  that your saliva has fluoride in it, from sources like toothpaste or tap water in some places, your teeth are able to take it in. Further, once in your enamel, fluoride works with the calcium and phosphate there to provide a strong defense against cavities. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Varley and Stonebrook Family Dental

When was the last time you went to the dentist for a cleaning? If it’s been longer than six months, we encourage you to make an appointment today. Seeing your dentist is the first step in making sure that you are truly caring for your teeth. There are many spots in the mouth we can’t see with our own eyes, but a dentist can! Dr. Varley can help catch problems before they start and prevent them from progressing. If you’re ready to revamp your dental routine, call us now: (303)-872-7907.