Although you may have excellent oral hygiene and no complex dental issues, it’s still important to your oral health that you visit your dentist every six months. This allows your dentist to examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth to identify any problems early on so that he or she can treat you before it becomes a significant problem. This helps preserve your oral and overall health as many dental problems can lead to medical ailments down the line.
Merely visiting the dentist twice a year is not enough to keep your mouth healthy. You must also have a home dental care routine to supplement the care you receive at your dental office. This is the single most important part of maintaining your oral health. Dr. Michael Mulkey of Lost Mountain Dental at Due West, a dental provider in Marietta, GA, encourages patients of all ages to keep up with routine dental visits and excellent at-home oral hygiene.
The Best At-Home Regimen For Healthy Teeth Includes:
Brush your teeth twice a day
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with an American Dental Association (ADA)-approved toothpaste and toothbrush is an essential part of your home oral hygiene routine. Make sure both the toothpaste and toothbrush are ADA approved to avoid damaging your teeth. Brushing your teeth prevents buildup of oral bacteria and plaque that can lead to gingivitis and gum disease.
Floss every day
Flossing allows you to remove plaque from the hard to reach places that brushing cannot clean. Many cases of tooth decay begin between teeth and beneath the gum line because people do not floss regularly. Flossing removes plaque and bacterial colonies, preventing them from building up and damaging the teeth.
Rinse After Eating
Rinsing your mouth is also an integral part of oral health. Rinsing with water between meals can help protect your teeth against build-ups of plaque and bacteria. Adding a mouthwash to your daily oral hygiene regimen will help protect your teeth and gums against tooth decay and gum disease by killing bacteria and reducing your risk of developing gingivitis.
When should I begin to visit Lost Mountain Dental?
Most dentists, including Dr. Mulkey of Lost Mountain Dental, recommend children have their first visit with the dentist starting with the emergence of their first tooth or with their first birthday, whichever comes first. This allows the child to acclimate to the dentist’s office with an age-appropriate cleaning. Dr. Mulkey will give you tips to care for your child’s developing teeth and help them feel comfortable with the dentist’s office and dental care.
Visiting the dentist with your child allows parents and caregivers to demonstrate the importance of healthy dental habits. Children who visit the dentist with a parent who is also coming for dental care are less likely to experience anxiety which builds solid foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Mulkey and Lost Mountain Dental at Due West offer comprehensive dental care to people of all ages. Contact our Marietta, GA dental office online or by phone at (678) 212-1280 today.