Unfortunately, the same attitude that causes us to put off visiting adult orthodontics until our teeth are in a crisis also prevents us from taking preventative measures that would keep our teeth clean and healthy. Because of this, many adults suffer from gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues that affect not only the appearance of their teeth and smile but also their overall health. The good news is that adults can do plenty of things to maintain good dental health and keep their teeth healthy for a lifetime.
Drinking fluoridated water
Drinking fluoridated water is one of the best ways to prevent cavities because it helps strengthen enamel. If you live in a state where you don’t have access to fluoridated water, you can get fluoridated water from other sources. Some examples include toothpaste, mouthwashes, and prescription medications.
Visit your dentist regularly
According to the American Dental Association, you should visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. During these check-ups, your teeth and gums will be checked for any potential problems. Your dentist will also examine your teeth for any signs of cavities or tooth decay. Your dentist will remove any tartar (calcium buildup) or plaque (soft, sticky film) that may have formed. In addition, your dentist will check for gum disease.
Keep your teeth clean
Everybody knows that brushing your teeth is essential to good oral health. But, how often do we really do that? The average person brushes their teeth only two times a day, while experts recommend we do it at least three times a day. People with poor oral hygiene tend to get cavities more often than those who brush their teeth more often. Brushing your teeth regularly is the easiest way to prevent cavities and also helps maintain a healthy mouth.
Cut back on smoking and sugary goods
Cutting back on smoking and sugary goods is a great way to improve your overall health, but did you know that it’s also a great way to improve your oral health? A lot of people don’t realize it, but smoking can cause oral health problems. Smoking causes gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums, which can cause bad breath and tooth loss. Periodontitis is an infection of the gums and bones that hold your teeth in place. If you have periodontitis, you might notice that your gums are puffy or inflamed or that the edges of your teeth are loose.
Make sure your air quality is good
Air quality is an important factor in our health, especially in the winter when the air is dry. The air in our home can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside! This is because we heat and cook with natural gas, which burns very efficiently, leaving a lot of pollutants in the air. Also, we spend most of our time indoors, so pollution from outside winds up inside. Pollutants in the air can damage the lungs and aggravate asthma and allergies. They can also irritate the lining of the lungs, causing coughing and wheezing. So you should let in more fresh air from windows and doors and get ac maintenance frequently to keep the air good quality.
Beware of dental conditions
Adults are just as susceptible to dental conditions as children, so it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that something is wrong. One common problem is gingivitis. This condition is caused by plaque, which is a sticky film that forms on your teeth. It is best to remove the plaque before it hardens into tartar. If you don’t, you could end up with a periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss. If you are concerned that you or someone you love might have periodontal disease, talk to your dentist, or contact a local periodontist.
