As one of Chatham’s most trusted dental offices, we here at Garcia Dental Care take preventative dentistry very seriously— which is why, for today’s blog, we have listed two of our top at-home tips for preventative dentistry.
Between visits, knowing how to optimize your at-home teeth-cleaning routine is essential. With these tips, your mouth will stay healthy all year long!
But First: What Is Preventative Dentistry?
Defined as “the practice of caring for your teeth to keep them healthy”, preventative dentistry includes the fulfillment of simple hygiene such as daily brushing and periodic professional dental cleanings. Preventative dentistry works to prevent cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and other dental complications.
Vital for children and adults alike, preventative dentistry helps you circumvent the physical and financial disadvantages that come alongside common dental treatments like extractions, dental bridges, or root canals.
Tip #1: Opt for Healthy Foods That Have the “Crunch” Factor
Backed by the ADA, the fact is that what we choose to eat makes a significant difference to our overall dental well-being.
Although the majority of us know to avoid sugary refined foods to avoid cavities, a less-talked about recommendation is to make crunchy whole foods a staple of your diet. Why? Because, on top of being low in sugar and high in fibre, crunchy whole foods (specifically vegetables) strengthen the jaw through the motion of chewing. This is specifically crucial in children.
Other than vegetables, which foods are dentist-approved for your teeth?
Cheese
Lean meats
Legumes
Tip #2: If You Can’t Floss Manually, Opt for a Flossing Tool
Flossing is a non-negotiable when it comes to preventative dentistry due to its ability to stimulate the gums, diminish plaque, lower the risk of inflammation, and dislodge stuck food that, if left, could cause dental complications.
With that being said, some young children and elderly adults may find it difficult to floss thoroughly. Our team of doctors highly recommends the use of flossing tools when this is the case.
The ADA-accepted brand Waterpik Water Flossers are, for example, an accessible way to floss; their technology utilizes water to flush out the area between teeth vs. a string, which are difficult for some people to handle. Waterpik’s selection of water flossers come in four varieties: countertop, “Sonic Fusion”, cordless, and “Complete Care”.
Interested in Our Other Most Important At-Home Tips for Preventative Dentistry?
Garcia Dental Care is here to help. Contact us today for answers to dental-related questions or to book your next appointment.
