Here at your Wichita dentist office we believe in practicing preventative dentistry. In addition to setting up healthy dental hygiene habits at home we encourage you to come into our office for regular check-ups. By adhering to to good oral standards you can maintain a healthy set of teeth for your entire life These habits include brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly. Children should be encouraged to drink water that has been treated with fluorinated water. Mouth washes with fluoride are widely available for over-the-counter purchase in a variety of markets and you will find a large selection of flavors and strengths.
Regular brushing and flossing are encouraged because food particles should not be allowed to set for long periods of time on and between teeth. Food contains bacteria, and left on the teeth, the bacteria will multiply quickly eroding the tooth’s enamel and working to decay the gums. Gum disease is also known as gingivitis. Mouth washes are great for removing particles of food that may have been missed during the brushing and flossing process, and is also good for when you cannot brush, but in no way should be considered as a replacement for regular brushing. In-between meal snacks should be kept to a minimum and for the sake of your teeth, and your overall health, a balanced diet of fresh vegetables, fruits and grains should be the goal. Sugary and processed foods should be kept to a minimum.
The ADA, American Dental Association, recommends seeing a professional every six months in order to assure excellent oral hygiene. By visiting your Wichita dentist you will be guaranteeing the best care you can get for your mouth. During your time with us you will receive a full check-up. Your teeth will be cleaned, flossed and polished, and x-rays will be taken. X-rays are an important part of preventative dentistry. They catch problems early and allow us to treat them before the issue can become something that will require extensive dental work.
Here at our office we are equipped to counsel you on whatever issues may arise with your mouth, and are able to suggest techniques and treatments that are available to you regarding your individual issues. In addition to your at-home teeth regime and regular dental visits, you should always be alert to any discomfort you may be experiencing in your mouth or jaw.
Anytime you experience pain anywhere in your mouth, be it your teeth, gums or jaw you should contact your professional and schedule and appointment to be seen. Chronic bad breath, also called halitosis, is also associated with poor dental care and is something that you should speak with your Wichita dentist about. Equally important and possibly relevant to your dental health are unexplained headaches and sometimes sore throats. If you experience any of these issues, you should investigate them, but don’t dismiss the idea that they could be related to your dental health.
You should practice good dental hygiene at home and visit your Wichita dentist regularly. This will assure years of excellent oral health, and avoid problems such as cavities, gingivitis, tooth loss and a variety of other dental issues. For further information on preventative dental hygiene call our office today. We are here for you!