Practicing proper oral care is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Effective oral care includes brushing teeth twice per day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist periodically for an oral exam and teeth cleaning. Developing proper oral care habits leads to a healthier mouth and helps prevent gum disease, decay, and other issues. Dr. Mike McCarthy, the experienced dentist at our office in Camarillo, can help you develop proper oral care habits.
Developing Good Habits
One of the keys to proper oral care is developing good habits. One of the most important daily habits you can implement is brushing your teeth twice every day using a toothpaste that contains fluoride for cavity prevention. It is important to brush the teeth gently using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Brushing too aggressively can wear down tooth enamel and lead to receding gums. Another essential habit to include in your daily routine is flossing between teeth, which helps remove particles and debris that could not be reached with the toothbrush.
Good habits also include limiting consumption of sugary foods and drinks, which can lead to cavities and decay. Sugars react with bacteria in the mouth to produce acids, which then wear down tooth enamel and increases the risk of infection and decay. Avoiding smoking can also lead to better oral health. Smoking is associated with an increased risk for gum disease and tooth loss.
Dental Exams and Cleanings
Dental exams and cleanings play a crucial role in proper oral care. Scheduling an oral exam regularly is an effective way to identify oral health issues early on before they become worse. If problems are discovered during your checkup at our office in Camarillo, our skilled dentist can treat them right away. Prompt treatment prevents the problem from progressing or spreading to other areas.
Professional teeth cleanings are also part of proper oral care. The dental techniques and equipment available at the dental office enable you to achieve a more thorough cleaning than is possible at home. Additionally, certain oral health concerns, such as tartar buildup, can only be completely removed through a professional cleaning.
The importance of proper oral care cannot be emphasized enough. Proper oral care leads to better oral health and contributes to the prevention of various problems, such as gum disease or tooth decay. To schedule a checkup with Dr. McCarthy, our knowledgeable dentist, call our office in Camarillo at (805) 482-3214.