Your dental health plays a vital role in your overall well-being and happiness. Of course, we all know that brushing and flossing are key parts of dental care, but there are actually many other factors that can impact the health of your teeth and gums. You can prevent common dental problems by adopting good dental habits, maintaining a healthy diet and visiting Tooth Sparkler Family Dental in Sydney for regular check-ups.
Tooth Decay
You can help prevent tooth decay by regularly removing the build-up of plaque on your teeth through brushing and flossing. Limiting sugary foods (what the bacteria feed on) is also essential, as is avoiding acidic foods and drinks, which can damage and weaken your teeth. Drinking plenty of water can also help to rinse away bacteria and debris to help prevent decay.
Regular visits to the dentist can help identify and treat any decay before it becomes a more significant problem. If it’s been longer than six months since your last teeth cleaning, book an appointment today.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common dental problem affecting the tooth’s foundation (the gum and the bone) and is caused by bacteria that damage the gums and bone that support your teeth. You can manage and stop gum disease from progressing with the right treatment. Learn about the various symptoms of gum disease here.
To prevent gum disease, brush and floss properly, maintain a healthy diet, reduce or stop smoking, and visit the dentist regularly. Read more about how Tooth Sparkler Family Dental in Sydney can help you treat gum disease.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a severe disease that affects the tongue, mouth and other parts of the oral cavity. Risk factors for oral cancer include using tobacco products, alcohol consumption and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. At Tooth Sparkler, we screen for oral cancer at every visit. Early detection is essential for successful treatment. If you experience persistent mouth sores, difficulty chewing or swallowing, or hoarseness, you should consult your dentist immediately.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the enamel and dentin that make up the tooth are worn or damaged, exposing the nerves inside the teeth. If you’ve ever experienced tooth sensitivity, you’ll know it can be painful and disruptive to your everyday life. To prevent tooth sensitivity, maintain good oral hygiene, avoid damaging the gums and teeth and make an appointment with your dentist to determine the specific cause of the sensitivity and how best to manage it. In the meantime, always use a soft toothbrush, reduce acidic foods and drinks and use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
Grinding and Clenching
Grinding and clenching are common dental problems that can cause pain, jaw problems and damage to your teeth. It is a complex condition and can take time for you and your dentist to work out the triggers and causes. There are many different types of treatments depending on the cause of your grinding and symptoms. These include stress management, massage, physio, night/occlusal splint and botox.
If the underlying cause of grinding is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), we will refer you to a sleep specialist for the appropriate treatment, which may involve continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or a mandibular advancement device, depending on the severity of your condition.
The Best Home Oral Hygiene Routine
A good oral hygiene routine involves several steps to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Firstly, brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well, as this can help remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Do you know how dentists always ask if you floss? We’re not trying to make you feel guilty, it’s because, in addition to brushing, you should floss daily to remove food particles and plaque to protect your teeth. To floss effectively, use a piece of dental floss about 45cm long and wrap it around your fingers. Gently guide the floss between your teeth and move it up and down, careful not to snap it against your gums.
Using an antiseptic mouthwash can also help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit it out. Do not use mouthwash as a substitute for brushing and flossing.
Your dentist can provide you with personalised recommendations for your oral health based on your individual needs and risk factors as well as walk you through the best oral hygiene routine to do at home.
Prevention is Key
Overall, prevention is key and it’s always better to take steps to prevent dental problems before they happen. Regular check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, a healthy diet and reducing risk factors can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
At Tooth Sparkler Dental Services, we are committed to helping our patients maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental problems before they start. If you are due for a check-up or have any concerns about your dental health, please don’t hesitate to contact us or call (02) 9971 6134.
We are happy to provide home dental visits in Sydney for those who need it most. At Tooth Sparkler we know that it can be hard to get elderly, disabled, and less mobile people to the dentist for a check-up and clean. If this sounds like something you or a loved one needs, why not call us to discuss scheduling a visit.
