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Dental check-ups

Visiting the dentist for routine dental checkups every six months ensures that any potential oral health issues can be detected early and treated before they become serious. This will help you avoid the pain and cost of addressing these issues later on.

During a checkup, your dentist will carefully examine each tooth and the gums for signs of disease. They will look for swelling, cuts or lesions, as well as measuring the spaces between your teeth and gums called “dental pockets.” These can indicate gum disease and if left untreated can lead to tooth loss.

X-rays are usually taken during dental checkups to enable your dentist to see below the gum line where plaque and tartar build-up may be hiding. They can also identify bone loss associated with gum disease. Check-ups also include a professional cleaning to remove any remaining plaque, bacteria or tartar that brushing and flossing cannot eliminate. They also provide an opportunity for patients to ask questions about their dental hygiene and preventative practices.

Flossing

Flossing is a great way to remove the plaque germs that toothbrushes can’t reach between your teeth or under your gum line. Those germs lead to gum disease which can increase your risk of cavities and tooth loss.

Generally, the ADA recommends flossing at least once a day before or after brushing. You can also use a water flosser or an interdental brush to help with your daily oral care.

While long-term, large population-based studies of flossing are difficult and expensive to conduct, several recent studies have shown that daily flossing can reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. It’s important to find a time of day that fits your schedule and is convenient for you to floss. Some people like to floss in the morning, while others like to floss after lunch or as part of their bedtime routine. It’s also a good idea to ask your dentist or dental hygienist for tips and a demonstration of how to properly floss.

Mouthwash

A mouthwash (also known as a mouth rinse or oral rinse) is a liquid that is held in the mouth passively or swirled around to flush away bacteria and food debris. It can also aid in the prevention or control of gum disease and enhance general cleanliness and hygiene.

There are many types of mouthwash available and it is important to find a product that addresses your specific needs. If you have halitosis or a dry mouth, choose a mouthwash with xylitol or potassium nitrate to help relieve symptoms. Mouthwashes that contain antiseptic agents work to reduce plaque and gingivitis. Some also contain fluoride to prevent tooth decay.

When choosing a mouthwash, always read the label and follow the instructions. Remember that a mouthwash is meant to complement, not replace brushing and flossing as part of your dental care routine. If you have questions or concerns about mouthwash, talk to your dentist. They can provide personalized recommendations.

Fluoride rinse

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the risk of decay. This makes it a key ingredient in many dental products designed to help prevent cavities, including toothpastes, mouth rinses, and gels.

Fluorine, which is found in water and food, helps teeth remineralize (replace the minerals lost from daily brushing) and fight bacteria that cause decay. Most city water supplies have fluoride added for this reason.

A fluoride mouth rinse can provide extra protection against cavities, especially for individuals who don’t regularly brush or floss and are at higher risk of decay. However, a mouth rinse should never replace daily brushing and flossing.

Look for mouth rinses with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance to ensure that you are getting a safe and effective product. Children under six should be supervised when using a fluoride mouth rinse to avoid swallowing too much.