Visiting your Edmonton dentist for periodic exams and cleanings is essential for detecting emerging dental problems early. But you play an equally important role in prevention through proper daily oral hygiene and smart lifestyle habits. Avoid extensive dental treatments by stopping issues before they develop or progress.

In this article, we offer tips to help Edmonton residents of all ages prevent some of the most common dental problems. Protect your oral health by making simple yet beneficial choices each day.

Practice Proper Brushing and Flossing

A thorough oral hygiene routine at home minimizes your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Both begin as plaque – the sticky film of bacteria constantly forming on teeth. Daily brushing and flossing remove plaque from tooth surfaces, gums, and between teeth where cavities often start.

Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush gently for 2 full minutes twice daily. Don’t scrub aggressively. Set a timer if needed. Floss at least once per day. Your dentist can demonstrate proper techniques. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or when bristles look frayed.

Protect Teeth with Fluoride

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and impedes the bacteria that cause cavities. Edmonton tap water contains fluoride. Use fluoride toothpaste. Consider prescription strength fluoride gels or rinses if you are at high risk for decay. Fluoride varnishes or supplements may be recommended for children. Avoid fluoride-free oral products unless advised by your dentist.

Limit Frequent Snacking and Sipping

Constant snacking and sipping on sugary or acidic drinks promotes an environment where cavities flourish. Have set meal and snack times instead of grazing throughout the day. Rinse with water after consuming sugary foods. Drink water and milk primarily between meals. Limit juice and sweetened beverages. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing after eating to protect enamel softened by acids.

Choose Nutritious, Tooth-Friendly Foods

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, dairy, nuts, seeds, and whole grains provides the vitamins and minerals your oral tissues need to stay strong and resist decay. Avoid sticky candies and heavily processed carbs that cling to teeth promoting decay. Sugary foods feed the plaque bacteria. Catch problems early by mentioning any dietary changes to your dentist.

Beware Oral Piercings

Oral piercings like tongue and lip rings are fashionable but carry risks like infection, chipped teeth, gum damage, and excessive salivation. The metal continuously rubs, clacks against, and can even fracture teeth. Avoid this unnecessary dental danger. Those with oral piercings require diligent hygiene and frequent dental visits to monitor for issues. Consider switching to a plastic retainer instead.

Protect Your Pearly Whites

Your teeth naturally dull over time as the mineral structure changes and tiny fissures appear in enamel. Staining from coffee, tea, wine and smoking also yellows teeth. Boost your brightening routine prior to special occasions with over-the-counter whitening strips or get custom trays from your dentist for stronger bleaching gels. Avoid abrasive whitening methods that wear away enamel over time.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

See your dentist for cleanings and exams every 6 months to detect problems early, even if your mouth feels fine. X-rays and oral cancer screenings at regular visits are also important for catching issues not visible to the eye. Seniors at higher risk may need 4 dental visits per year. Ask your dentist how often you should come in based on your individual oral health status and risk factors.

Get Dental Sealants Applied

These thin plastic coatings adhere to the chewing surfaces of back molars to shield teeth from decay-causing bacteria that get trapped inside deep grooves. Both children and adults benefit from sealants. Ask your Edmonton dentist if sealants could help optimize your defenses against cavities and tooth decay. They are quick and painless to apply.

Consider Mouth Guards for Sports

Prevent dental trauma from sports by wearing a custom mouth guard during games and practices. They protect teeth from injury during contact sports like hockey, football, martial arts, boxing, and skateboarding. Your dentist takes exact impressions of your teeth to fabricate durable, comfortable guards that allow clear speech and breathing.

Address Bruxism to Avoid Tooth Damage

Excessive teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) can wear down tooth enamel, chip edges, and even crack teeth. Symptoms include sore jaw muscles, dull headaches, and extreme tooth sensitivity upon waking. Have your dentist fit you for a custom night guard to prevent the damaging effects of bruxism while sleeping. Limiting caffeine and managing stress help minimize the condition.

These simple yet effective tips will go a long way toward keeping your mouth healthy and avoiding extensive dental work. Partner with your Edmonton dentist and hygienist to optimize your oral wellness starting today.

Website: https://www.dentalelements.ca/