Fixing Problems Early and Maintaining Good Dental Health for Life
Taking a proactive approach to oral health can help patients avoid dental emergencies and costly procedures down the road. The old saying, “Prevention is better than cure,” still holds true today. A proactive approach to dentistry either prevents dental problems from developing in the first place through good oral hygiene and routine visits to the dentist or identifies and corrects problems early, thus reducing the time they have to fester.
A proactive approach to dental care also helps patients maintain good overall health. Oral health is linked to systemic diseases, and poor oral health can impact the heart, respiratory, digestive, and mental health.
One of the best ways to help a patient develop good dental hygiene habits is to encourage them and provide positive reinforcement. Many of us have had a brushing or flossing experience that was less than ideal, and patients are more likely to stick with their routines when they are encouraged rather than scolded for not practicing proper hygiene.
Dental professionals can also use salivary testing to identify risk factors that may lead to tooth decay and other issues before they are symptomatic, which is a big step towards helping patients adopt proactive dental behaviors. For example, a dentist can monitor for high levels of acid producing bacteria that contribute to gum disease and tooth decay by using SillHa.
If the bacteria are caught early, a dentist can prescribe a fluoride treatment that can reverse the damage and restore healthy levels of bacteria. This is one of the most effective ways to treat tooth decay and stop it from progressing.
Another proactive strategy is to encourage patients to adopt healthy dietary choices that support their oral and systemic health. A healthy diet can reduce the occurrence of gum disease, reduce the risk of tooth loss, and lower the chances of diabetes, heart disease, respiratory illness, cancer, and more.
Practicing good oral hygiene is a lifelong commitment that begins in childhood. Those who begin to practice good habits early will find it much easier to maintain their oral and general health for the rest of their lives, which will reduce the risk of dental emergencies and other serious health concerns. It’s important to visit a dentist in Torrance, CA regularly, brush and floss twice daily, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and stay away from tobacco use. This will ensure that your teeth and gums remain strong and healthy throughout your entire life.