10 Facts to Keep Your Mouth Healthy in 2011

1.  Dental  Checkups are Important:

Going to the dentist for regular checkups is one of the most important factors in maintaining good oral health.  Regular checkups can prevent root canals, cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other dental conditions.

2.  Dental Cleanings are Extremely Important:
Having frequent dental hygiene cleanings will help prevent gum disease and gingivitis.

3.  Gum Disease (Periodontal) Affects Your Overall Health:
Gum disease is linked to heart disease and is the main reason for tooth loss.  Routine cleanings along with proper oral hygiene at home will help decrease one’s chance of getting gum disease.

4.  Bad Breath Could be the Result of a Dental Problem:                                                                                                                                                          Do not be embarrassed to discuss bad breath with your dental hygienist or dentist, as is could be due to a dental condition.   85% of individuals with malodor (bad breath) have a dental condition as a cause of their bad breath.
5.  Brushing Teeth Twice Daily to Help Keep Cavities Away:
Keeping plaque removed frequently will help keep the bacteria level down along with the acid level in the mouth.

6.  Flossing Daily to Help Keep Cavities Away:
Daily flossing removes the plaque and helps to prevent cavities in between the teeth.  Flossing also helps to prevent gum disease.

7.  Proper Nutrition is Good for Oral Health:
Sugars from soft foods and drinks combine with the bacteria in the mouth to produce acid which attach tooth enamel.  Taking vitamins B, C, and D are all helpful in keeping the gum tissue healthy.

8.  Dental Problems do Not Get Better or Go Away Without Treatment:
Cavities only get bigger with time and if not treated in a timely manner could lead to a tooth needing a root canal or even tooth loss.

9.  Change  Toothbrushes Frequently:
To keep teeth and gums healthy, changing toothbrushes or toothbrush heads every 3 months is necessary.  Always change your toothbrush or toothbrush head following an illness, or use a UV sanitizer.

10.  Yearly Oral Cancer Screenings are Important:
Our Biological Dental office offers routine oral cancer screenings with each visit.  We also recommend patient’s have a Velscope examination yearly.  The Velscope exam is the best in dental technology to detect oral cancer in its earliest stages.