Albertville, AL
Your mouth is the gateway to your overall health. It is not just what you put into your mouth that matters, but how you take care of it that influences your risk of dental problems or other health-related diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Neglecting your teeth also means you will eventually have to spend a significant amount of money fixing your teeth or getting a set of dentures. The purpose of preventive care not only guards your oral health, but your body, and your wallet!
What is preventive care?
Preventive care starts with proper oral hygiene habits at home, which means brushing and flossing daily, as well as eating a balanced diet low in sugar. Plus, be sure to visit the dentist twice a year for cleanings, x-rays (when needed), and exams.
You are what you eat
Yes, even your diet affects your oral health. It is no surprise that sugar causes cavities. Not to say that you can never enjoy a sweet treat, just do so sparingly and be sure to brush your teeth afterwards to remove residual sugars from your teeth and gums.
Brush regularly
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you brush your teeth twice daily, for two minutes, using a small pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. You should replace your toothbrush every few months or sooner if you notice the bristles seem worn out, or you have been sick. Remember to brush your tongue too!
Floss the teeth that you want to keep
Seriously, that would be ALL of your teeth, right? Flossing is like cleaning between your teeth. You wouldn’t take a shower and only wash half of your body, would you? The same line of thought should apply to your teeth. When you skip the floss, you are basically only cleaning two-thirds of your teeth. By flossing, you remove bacteria that are lurking in those unseen areas.
At Wall Street Dentistry, we believe oral care is necessary for everyone. To schedule an appointment, contact Wall Street Dentistry today at (256) 878-0525. We welcome patients of Albertville and Boaz, Alabama.
