Preventive oral care is a great way to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Preventive care includes practicing healthy habits at home, such as brushing and flossing daily, as well as scheduling regular dental checkups. When you practice preventive oral care, it is possible to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. At Cedar Springs Dental in Cedar Springs, MI, our skilled dentist, Dr. Andy Setaputri, can help you maintain optimal oral health through preventive care.
Oral Exams and Cleanings
One of the most important steps you can take toward preventing oral health problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, is visiting the dentist regularly. Dental checkups include oral exams and professional teeth cleanings, both of which are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. During an oral exam, the dentist examines your teeth and gums for potential problems. Any concerns that are identified can be treated right away, which helps prevent the problem from progressing.
Professional teeth cleanings are important because they provide a deeper level of clean than can usually be achieved at home by brushing and flossing. Dental professionals have the skills, techniques, and tools to thoroughly clean teeth and gums and reach places a toothbrush cannot. Additionally, sometimes stubborn plaque or tartar buildup can only be removed through a professional cleaning.
Through regular oral exams and professional teeth cleanings, the dental professionals and experienced dentist at our office in Cedar Springs, MI, can help you achieve and maintain better oral health.
Practicing Healthy Habits at Home
Preventive oral care extends beyond periodic dental checkups and includes practicality healthy habits at home. Developing a good oral care routine that includes brushing and flossing daily is one habit to develop. Other healthy habits that can help you maintain a healthy mouth include:
- Flossing between teeth daily
- Brushing teeth twice daily
- Using a toothpaste that contains fluoride
- Brushing gently and avoid being too abrasive
- Limiting consumption of sugary foods and drinks
- Avoiding or quitting smoking
The importance of preventive oral care cannot be understated. Preventive care that includes practicing health habits and visiting the dentist regularly can help you maintain a healthy mouth. To learn more about preventive oral care, speak to one of our skilled dental professionals or Dr. Setaputri, our knowledgeable dentist, by calling Cedar Springs Dental in Cedar Springs, MI. While our office is temporarily closed, it's important that you continue to keep good oral hygiene habits at home.