What You Need to Do For Regular Dental Care

Too many adults assume regular dental care is unnecessary as the years in which cavities tend to form are well behind them. In reality, regular dental care is just as important in the adult years as it was during childhood. Adults face a heightened risk for an array of dental problems. Let's take a look at the basics of regular dental care.

Regular dental care prevents periodontal disease

If you do not brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis, you will be that much more likely to experience periodontal disease. Regular dental cleanings at the dentist are also essential to maintaining oral health. Consider the fact that after the age of 35, people are much more likely to endure periodontal disease than cavities.

Failure to brush, floss and visit the dentist at the appropriate intervals will lead to bacteria-laden plaque and tartar accumulating on the teeth. An accumulation of plaque and tartar will damage the jaw bone as well as supporting structures. If this damage occurs, the teeth will loosen. Loose teeth will lead to the need for periodontal surgery.

Frequency of dental care procedures

Those who are especially diligent about maintaining oral health bring toothpaste, a toothbrush and floss with them to work, school and elsewhere. These individuals brush and floss after each meal. However, some people graze throughout the day and find it bothersome to clean their teeth after each snacking session.

At a bare minimum, people need to brush their teeth after waking and before turning in for the night. People also need to floss their teeth at least once per night after they finish eating. Rinsing with a fluoridated mouthwash will also combat tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health maladies.

Visit the dentist two times per year at 6-month intervals. Aside from providing the dentist with a chance to analyze oral health, regular dental check-ups will also let this oral health professional check for oral cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 40,000 individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer of the mouth, throat or tongue. Upwards of 7,000 of these individuals will perish after this cancer attacks the body.

Regular dental care is especially important for those at a heightened risk

Visiting the dentist two times per year suffices for most patients. However, certain patients require more frequent appointments. If you smoke, are diabetic, pregnant or have gum disease, you should visit the dentist every three to four months as you are in a “high risk” category for oral health problems.

Regular dental care is essential to gauge the integrity of dental fillings and restorations

Dental fillings tend to last upwards of a decade or two. If the fillings begin to wear, bacteria and food particles will move beneath them. When this occurs, tooth decay will worsen to the point that the interior portion of the tooth begins to rot. If the decay reaches the nerve, a root canal might be necessary. If the structure of the tooth breaks down in unison with the filling, a full crown with a root canal might be the sole restoration option.

For more information call Oak Tree Dental at (703) 763-5239.