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What Is Basic Dental Care?



Basic dental care involves brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, seeing your dentist and/or dental hygienist for regular checkups and cleanings, and eating a mouth-healthy diet, which means foods high in whole grains, vegetables and fruits, and dairy products.


Why is basic dental care important?


Practicing basic dental care:

  • Prevents tooth decay

  • Prevents gum (periodontal) disease, which can damage gum tissue and the bones that support teeth, and in the long term can lead to the loss of teeth

  • Shortens time with the dentist and dental hygienist, and makes the trip more pleasant

  • Saves money. By preventing tooth decay and gum disease, you can reduce the need for fillings and other costly procedures

  • Helps prevent bad breath. Brushing and flossing rid your mouth of the bacteria that cause bad breath

  • Helps keep teeth white by preventing staining from food, drinks, and tobacco.

  • Improves overall health

  • Makes it possible for your teeth to last a lifetime


Are there ways to avoid dental problems?


Keeping your teeth and gums healthy requires good nutrition and regular brushing and flossing.

  • Brush your teeth twice a day-in the morning and before bed-and floss once a day. This removes plaque, which can lead to damaged teeth, gums, and surrounding bone

  • Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay and cavities. Ask your dentist if you need a mouthwash that contains fluoride or one with ingredients that fight plaque. Look for toothpastes that have been approved by the American Dental Association

  • Avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar. Sugar helps plaque grow

  • Avoid using tobacco products, which can cause gum disease and oral cancer. Exposure to tobacco smoke (secondhand smoke) also may cause gum disease as well as other health problems

  • Practice tongue You can use a tongue cleaner or a soft-bristle toothbrush, stroking in a back-to-front direction. Tongue cleaning is particularly important for people who smoke or whose tongues are coated or deeply grooved

  • Schedule regular trips to the dentist based on how often you need exams and cleaning


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