While you may have excellent oral hygiene and no dental problems, it’s still important to your oral health that you visit your dentist every six months. These routine visits allow your dentist to examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth so that he or she can identify any problems to treat you before they become a threat to your oral health. Attending routine appointments helps preserve your oral and also the overall health of your entire body as many dental problems can lead to severe medical ailments down the line.
Merely seeing your dentist twice a year isn’t quite enough to maintain your oral health. Establishing and following a home dental care routine is the single most important thing you can do to improve your oral health. Dr. Harry W. McCool, a respected dentist in Lilburn, GA, encourages his patients of all ages to maintain regular dental visits and excellent at-home oral hygiene.
The Best At-Home Regimen For Healthy Teeth Includes:
Brush your teeth twice a day
Dental experts recommend brushing your teeth after every meal or at least twice daily with an American Dental Association (ADA)-approved toothpaste and toothbrush (soft or medium). The ADA approval means the products you are using have been determined to be safe for your sensitive gums or tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth twice daily helps control the buildup of plaque that can harden into tartar and the bacteria that damage tooth enamel while feeding on the plaque.
Floss every day
Flossing every day allows you to clear away plaque and bacteria from the hard to reach places that brushing cannot clean. Most tooth decay starts beneath the gum line and in between teeth because people do not floss regularly.
Rinse After Eating
Rinsing is also an important step in improving your oral health. Rinsing your mouth with water between meals can help protect your teeth against the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Including use of a mouthwash in your daily routine will help protect against gum disease by killing bacteria, reducing the risk of decay and gingivitis.
When should I begin to visit Dr. McCool?
Most dentists, including Dr. McCool, recommend children visit the dentist starting with their first tooth or their first birthday, whichever comes first. Starting them early helps them become accustomed to the dentist’s office through exposure to age-appropriate cleanings. Dr. McCool will give you tips to care for your child’s developing teeth and help them feel comfortable with dental care.
Visiting the dentist with your child allows parents and caregivers to demonstrate healthy dental habits to their children. Studies show that children who visit the dentist with a parent who is also coming for dental care, report less anxiety about dental care. This helps establish a solid foundation for a lifetime of good oral care habits.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Harry McCool of Lilburn, GA offers comprehensive dental care to people of all ages. Contact our office online to schedule an appointment or by phone at (770) 450-4407 today.