The Importance of Preventive Care

The Importance of Preventive Care

Invest in a smile-healthy lifestyle now to maintain a healthy smile for the future.

Practicing preventive care is one of the best things you can do to maintain good oral hygiene and protect yourself from gum disease, decay, and other common problems. Of course, if you aren’t exactly sure if you’re doing everything you can for your smile, it’s time to consult with our Parker, CO, dentist, Dr. Robert DiGiorgio, to learn more.

Here are some simple steps that you can take right away to reduce your risk for dental problems and to maintain a healthy smile:

Brush Twice a Day

This is something you should be doing anyway but just in case you aren’t, it’s definitely time to start. Brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste (check your toothpaste to make sure it has the ADA seal of approval) twice a day, once in the morning and again before bedtime. Brush all surfaces of your teeth and also remember to brush your tongue, which can help remove the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

Replace Your Toothbrush Head Regularly

A toothbrush won’t last forever, and using a worn toothbrush could actually wear away enamel as well as fail to properly clean your teeth. About every 3-4 months you should replace your toothbrush head or the toothbrush itself, depending on what type of toothbrush you use. How do you know it’s time to ditch your toothbrush head? The bristles will often splay out and look frayed.

Floss Daily

Even if you think you’re a top-notch brusher, you still need to floss your teeth. After all, brushing is great for removing plaque and food from the front and back surfaces of your teeth, but the bristles often can’t get between teeth as effectively. This is where flossing is crucial. Floss every night before bed to remove any plaque and food from between teeth, as well as along and under the gum line. Flossing before brushing can also help dislodge food and plaque before brushing, making brushing even more effective.

Visit the Dentist

Everyone, no matter their health status, should visit their dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. Our Parker, CO, general dentist can detect problems early on when they can easily be managed or even reversed, and getting these routine evaluations can actually prevent cavities and other issues from occurring in the first place.

Need Dental Care? Give Us a Call

Have questions about caring for your smile? Need to schedule your six-month checkup? If so, Downtown Parker Dental in Parker, CO, would be happy to book your next cleaning. Call (303) 699-6100 today.