|
Tooth Tips
Simple Reminders to Maintain Good Oral Health
Here are a few memory joggers which will help you to ensure a healthy mouth. Your teeth are an investment you can’t afford to be careless about. This is the first of a two part article.
- Brush twice a day (more often when you can) with a fluoride toothpaste that carries the American Dental Association’s seal of approval.
- Millions of Americans suffer from dry mouth, a condition which often leads to more rapid tooth decay. If you’re one of those people, drink lots of sugar-free liquids, avoid mouth breathing, avoid caffeine, salt, acidic foods and alcohol. Brush your teeth as often as you can, using a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Ask your dentist about fluoride rinses and the artificial saliva products on the market.
- When brushing, be gentle. Rough brushing can hurt your gums and erode tooth enamel.
- Replace your tooth brush as soon as bristles become frayed or warn, or after three or four months (whichever comes sooner).
- Bacteria tends to collect on dentures, so, if you are a denture wearer, make certain to brush all the denture’s surfaces at least once a day, with a denture-care product. The clasps on your dentures are particularly vulnerable to bacteria so pay special attention to cleaning them.
- Make an appointment to see your dentist for regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups. This warning is especially necessary for older Americans. The American Dental Association indicates that less than half the senior population have annual dental exams.
- Floss at least once a day. Use of an interdental cleaner (e.g., special brush, pick or sticks) may also be recommended. If you’re not sure of what product is best for you, ask your dentist or hygienist.
- Swollen, irritated or painful gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing and chronic bad breath are all warning signs of gum disease. See your dentist at the first sign of any of these conditions.
- Sensitive teeth may be a sign of a damaged tooth, a cavity or impending gum disease. Your teeth should not be sensitive to the touch or to hot, cold, sour or sweet food. If you experience such symptoms, a visit to the dentist is in order. Your dentist will do a thorough exam to determine the cause of the problem. He will then suggest treatment which may include the use of a sensitive tooth toothpaste.
- Careful brushing of dentures is just part of the appropriate cleaning routine. Before they go to sleep, denture wearers should remove their dentures and place them in water or a denture cleaning agent. It’s important for denture wearers to rinse with a warm, salt water solutions in the morning, before bedtime and after meals.
Keep an eye on your teeth. Treat them well and they, in turn, will serve you well. If you have any dental health questions, ask your dentist, hygienist or dental assistant.
|
