At Buckingham Dental, it is our firm belief that prevention is better than cure. Each member of our team always tend to educate patients regarding the different diseases and infections of the mouth, and how they can be prevented with a little care, certain precautions or lifestyle modifications, and proper oral hygiene.
It is important to understand that it is not only the teeth that are susceptible to infections, and cavities aren’t the only things you should be worrying about. The soft tissues surrounding the teeth and covering the oral cavity are very sensitive and must be taken care of on daily basis. Any changes in the color, texture or feel of the soft tissues must immediately be reported to the dentist, as it may mark the beginning of a potentially harmful disease/infection. The optimal health of the gums is of critical importance, because it is these soft tissues that hold a tooth in its socket. Improper oral hygiene, excessive indulgence in smoking, areca nut chewing or alcohol, and unprotected sexual practices can lead to various diseases of the gums. Symptoms of weak, diseased gums include pocket formation, bleeding, reddish color, swelling, and recession leading to the exposure of roots and eventually early loss of teeth.
The best way to make sure your soft tissues are healthy is to visit the dental clinic routinely in order to have them professionally assessed. During a dental checkup, instruments such as probes, mirrors, tweezers and at times, dental x-rays are used to check for any abnormalities. On the basis of this examination and assessment, the dentist prepares a step-by-step treatment plan that addresses all dental issues, thus restoring complete dental and gingival health.
Here are some helpful tips to maintain excellent oral health:
- Remember to brush before going to bed and after meals to keep bacteria at bay. Make sure you use circular motions and a fluoride toothpaste while brushing.
- Floss on daily basis to make sure food material and other debris does not remain lodged between the crevices of the teeth where the bristles of toothbrushes cannot reach.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Refrain from indulging in harmful habits such as tobacco chewing, areca nut/betel nut chewing and even unprotected oral sexual practices.
- Visit the dentist on regular, routinely basis to have your oral health assessed professionally. Report any abnormalities that you see or feel in your mouth for timely treatment.
- Rinse your mouth using a fluoride based mouthwash to fight halitosis, or bad breath.