Understanding the Benefits of Preventive Dentistry
Prevention, they say, is better than cure. To explain further, it’s less stressful and cheaper too. Why treat a disease that you can prevent? In the world of oral care, preventive dentistry near you aims to maintain good health by encouraging safe practices.
Preventive dentistry is quite simple. It refers to oral care based on regular toothbrushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. These habits can make the difference between a lifetime of good or poor oral health. Preventive dentistry in Paramus has a huge focus on children because these habits need to be developed early in life. The bulk of preventive dentistry lies in you as an individual, with the occasional input of your dentist complementing your efforts. Let’s see how.
The Role of The Individual in Preventive Dentistry
Toothbrushing is the single most important part of preventive dentistry in Paramus, NJ. We’re all expected to brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste endorsed by the American Dental Association (ADA). This is done in the morning and after dinner at night using a soft-bristled toothbrush. You’re expected to replace your toothbrush three to four times yearly. Proper tooth brushing needs to be learned. Your dentist can demonstrate this for you. Do not neglect your tongue. Brushing your tongue keeps the bacteria at bay and gives you a good breath.
Flossing should always accompany toothbrushing. Your dental floss gets into those tight corners that your toothbrush can’t reach. If you have braces on, use floss threaders to get in between the metal threaders. Ask for a flossing demonstration from your dentist as you have to do it the right way. Using mouthwash to rinse your mouth is a great idea too.
A balanced diet is also important for oral health. Vitamins and minerals are abundant in fruits and vegetables. A good portion of your diet should include this. Avoid sugary and acidic foods as much as you can. Drink lots of water. Smoking is bad for your teeth and gums, do away with it. Be careful what you chew. Hard foods can damage your teeth. If you participate in contact sports, use mouth guards all the time.
The Role of The Dentist in Preventive Dentistry
You should schedule regular oral exams with your dentist twice to thrice a year. You should also go in for routine cleanings and X-rays regularly. For children, dentists help to promote good oral hygiene and educate parents on habits and diet. Dental sealants are a form of preventive dentistry too. They track teeth development and act to correct any anomaly in the process. They also help to identify health issues that can affect a child’s dental health. This way, they refer to the appropriate health professionals when required to.
A family dentist or pediatric dentist can provide you with preventive dentistry in Paramus, NJ, among other services. The whole family can get all of their routine preventive care from a family dentist. This includes regular teeth cleanings, exams, and X-rays. They can identify potential problems and act on them or refer you to other specialists for further care. Pediatric dentists offer routine preventive care to children only. They’re well trained to provide holistic dental care for children, including preventive and specialized dental services.
Benefits of Preventive Dentistry
Good oral hygiene limits the chances of cavities, gingivitis, periodontitis, and other dental problems. This also means that other related problems like diabetes, heart disease, and cancers are prevented. Routine check-ups help to identify problems in their early stages. The prompt treatment removes the potential for complications. For children, preventive dentistry lays the foundation for a lifetime of dental health.
What Is the Cost of Preventive Dentistry?
Your routine preventive care can be covered 100%, depending on your dental plan. Keep this in mind when choosing a plan for yourself and your family. These plans usually have limits, after which you’ll have to start paying out-of-pocket. Hence, understand your coverage and use it accordingly. It’s best to be covered for preventive care.