Your dentist explains that keeping your mouth healthy throughout your
entire life doesn’t have to be difficult, especially if you follow good oral
hygiene habits and know what to expect at any age.
Mothers who are expecting can give their kids
a healthy start by taking calcium supplements and eating healthy foods.
According to the American Dental Association, folic acid supplements also help
to decrease the risk of your child being born with a cleft palate or cleft lip.
Once your baby is born, wipe the gums using a damp and soft cloth. Doing so
after feeding helps prevent bacteria build up. Your child’s teeth usually emerge
around six months. Once this occurs brush the baby’s teeth using a baby tooth
brush twice a day. Begin taking your baby to the dentist when they are about 12
months old. Other important habits to establish throughout childhood include a
diet full of fresh fruits and veggies and calcium rich foods such as kale and cheese
to help protect the tooth’s enamel.
According to the ADA, an astounding one third
of American adults have tooth decay. It is imperative that you see your dentist
twice a year, as early detection is vital. Tooth decay can be painless,
especially during the early stages, and can only be detected during a dental
checkup. Gum disease, which can lead to the periodontal disease, can cause bone
loss and should be taken care of as quickly as possible. If your gums bleed and
are red or swollen, schedule an appointment with your dentist as quickly as
possible. If you have diabetes, suffer from epilepsy, or have high blood
pressure, you may need to see your dentist more often. If you drink bottled
water, ask your dentist about fluoride supplements as fluoride can help
strengthen your teeth.
Older adults need to pay close attention to
their teeth and gums and see the dentist on a regular basis for oral cancer
screenings. Older adults, especially those who drink alcohol on a regular basis
or smoke, have an increased risk of oral and throat cancer. Older adults are
also more susceptible to dry mouth thanks to certain medications that could
affect oral health. If you wear dentures schedule regular appointments with
your dentist so they can be checked periodically for fit.
These days’ people are living longer, but
that all starts with good oral hygiene, which includes brushing twice and
flossing once each day. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today.
