For the easiest ways to maintain your oral health in 2023, check out this guide from Vibrant Square Dental.
What Are The Easiest Ways To Maintain My Oral Health In 2023?
- Preventative Care Is The Best Care
- Know The Signs Of Gum Disease
- Don’t Hesitate To Seek Immediate Treatment For Dental Emergencies
When It Comes To Oral Health, Preventative Care Is The Best Care
It is far better to take preventative measures against tooth decay and gum disease than to have to treat existing issues. One of the most effective ways you can prevent both tooth decay and gum disease begins at home with your daily brushing and flossing routine.
Brushing helps to remove plaque, a sticky film that contains bacteria that can lead to cavities, as well as food debris from the surface of teeth. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar and can cause inflammation of the gums and gum disease.
Flossing after meals is also important for trapping and lifting out plaque and food debris in crevices that can’t be reached by brushing alone. Make sure to brush your teeth for at least two minutes in the morning and before bed, and floss after meals for optimal oral health.
Your dental experts at Vibrant Square Dental are glad to offer additional preventative oral care measures as well. Preventative care consists of a range of treatments, such as fluoride applications, dental sealants, and professional cleanings. Additionally, mouth guards can be worn by those who lead an active lifestyle. All of these preventative steps can help stave off the onset of dental diseases and injuries.
What Are The Signs Of Gum Disease, And How Can A Dentist Help?
In the United States alone, gum disease affects millions of people annually. Signs of gum disease are easy to spot, such as tender, swollen gums that bleed when brushed. In more severe cases, bacteria cause the gums to separate from the teeth near the roots, forming pockets that can be a breeding ground for bacteria and decay-causing food particles.
With the right treatment, gum disease can be managed and oral health restored. If you notice any signs of gum disease, make an appointment with your dentist. Your dentist can intervene in the following ways:
- Professional dental cleaning is an essential part of any dental visit and involves the use of specialized equipment to remove bacteria and biofilm from all areas of the mouth. With regular professional cleaning, a good dental hygiene routine, and no other risk factors, it can be enough to prevent gum disease and even counteract mild cases.
- Scaling and root planing is a more advanced cleaning process that removes bacteria and biofilm from below the gum line and smooths the root surface to discourage future bacteria buildup.
- If the previous two treatments fail to address gum disease, our team may suggest periodontal surgery to remove any remaining decay areas and address the gingival pockets, helping to promote healing and eliminate tartar and plaque.
What Situations Are Dental Emergencies?
Injury to your teeth or gums should always be taken seriously and addressed swiftly by a dental professional. An untreated dental injury can lead to long-term risks, so it’s important to know how to respond to these emergencies and it is essential to act fast to ensure your smile remains healthy and beautiful.
- Toothaches. While it may seem like a minor issue, a toothache can be an indicator of a dental emergency and can also cause other issues such as insomnia, difficulty concentrating, and bruxism. The cause of the toothache may be an underlying problem such as cavities or a chipped or fractured tooth. For this reason, it is important to see our dentists as soon as possible.
- Tooth Displacement. If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having a tooth knocked out, don’t worry – it is possible to restore it provided that you act quickly. Make sure to pick up the tooth gently by the crown and rinse it with cool water to get rid of any dirt or debris. An adult should be able to push the tooth back into the socket, but if this isn’t possible (or the person affected is a child), the tooth should be tucked into their cheek or placed in a glass of milk. To ensure the tooth is well preserved, keep it moist on the way to the dentist, and go there as soon as possible.
- Dental Infections. It is important to take dental infections seriously as they can be a major threat to your oral health. If left untreated, infection can lead to the destruction of jawbone, gum, and dental tissue. In the most extreme cases, it can even be life-threatening when the infection enters the bloodstream.
For patients in Vaughan, Ontario, consider Vibrant Square Dental for the best in general dentistry and family dentistry, and all your cosmetic and restorative needs. For an appointment, call us today at 905-553-3004.
