Dental Care Tips Against Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Every day we’re fighting against plaque and tartar. It’s a battle where you’re not allowed to let your guard down, because the moment you do, plaque can easily build up, harden into tartar, and wreak havoc in your mouth. Two of the most common dental issues affordable dentists in Issaquah deal with every day are tooth decay and gum disease.

Despite the recommendations of the American Dental Association, millions of Americans still come to the dentist presenting with tooth pain from obvious cavities, tooth decay that has reached the pulp, and severe forms of gum disease.

How can you prevent these problems from happening? Keep in mind that these dental issues are not caused by genetics. These problems happen because of neglect. Therefore, if you want to keep your mouth healthy and preserve the integrity of your teeth and gums, you need to gear up for battle. 

Dental Care Tips for a Healthy Smile

How to Avoid Tooth Decay

• Brush twice a day for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Dentists prefer you wait at least 30 minutes since your last meal before you start brushing your teeth to avoid brushing the acids from the food and drinks you just had against your enamel, as this can cause premature enamel erosion. 
• Clean your teeth every day using dental floss. If you’re wearing braces, you may use an interdental brush. Flossing is just as important as brushing because it helps remove food particles and bacteria that have lodged in the narrow crevices between your teeth. 
• Visit your dentist regularly to have your teeth and gums examined. These visits also include teeth cleanings to remove plaque and tartar in hard-to-reach areas. 
  

How to Avoid Gum Disease

Brushing and flossing are mainstays in keeping both your teeth and gums healthy. Basically, the things you do for your teeth are the same for your gums because gum infection starts with tartar buildup along the gum line.

This means you should continue to brush twice daily and floss before bedtime. However, there are a few additional things you should do to avoid gum disease.

• When your gums feel sore and when they bleed when you brush, schedule an appointment with your dentist so they can prescribe medications to lessen the inflammation and to control the infection. 
• Rinsing with over-the-counter antibacterial mouthwash also helps prevent gingivitis and reduces the development of tartar. 
• Now is also the best time to consider quitting smoking. Did you know that smokers are more susceptible to gum disease? Studies also show that smoking will compromise your immune system, reducing your body’s chances of fighting the infection. 

Are You Looking for Affordable Dentists in Issaquah?

If you want to take control over your oral health, partner with us, and we’ll help you achieve a healthy mouth! 

At Apex Dental Care, your oral health is our priority. We have been in the industry for nearly two decades, and we take pride in our skills and experience in providing general, restorative, and cosmetic dental care. We not only treat oral problems, but we also teach you how to prevent them from happening. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us for more information.

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