In this guide from Smile Drs, we explain the easiest ways to maintain your oral health in 2023.
What Are The Easiest Ways To Maintain Your Oral Health In 2023?
- Brush And Floss Every Single Day
- Visit Your Experts At Smile Drs Twice A Year
- Reduce Your Sugar Intake
- If You Have TMJ Disorder, Consider Treatment
- Get A Mouth Guard To Protect Your Smile From Grinding Or Sports Injuries
Brush And Floss Every Single Day
Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day are essential habits for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing helps remove food particles and plaque, which can cause cavities and tooth decay if left unchecked.
Flossing after meals further helps to remove plaque and food debris that brushing alone can’t reach. For the best results, brush your teeth for two minutes in the morning and before bed. These simple steps can help protect your teeth and gums from cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Visit The Smile Drs Twice A Year
Maintaining regular dental appointments is essential for good oral health. The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for a full cleaning, examination and consultation.
Professional cleanings can remove plaque that can’t be removed with brushing and flossing alone. Dentists are also able to spot potential problems before they become severe. By having preventative care, you can help to fend off decay, gum disease and other oral health issues.
Reduce Your Sugar Intake
Consuming sugar can be detrimental to the health of your teeth as it turns into acid when it enters your mouth, which can corrode the enamel. Additionally, acidic fruits, teas, and coffee can also cause harm to your teeth, so it is wise to be mindful of what you are eating. You don’t need to cut these items out of your diet entirely, but being aware of the effects they can have is important.
What Is TMJ Disorder And What Are My Treatment Options?
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull, and consists of a range of bone structures, muscles, and connective tissues that enable chewing. When this joint is impaired, it’s referred to as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), and symptoms include tenderness near the jaw, as well as a clicking or popping sound when speaking or chewing.
Fortunately, there are multiple treatments available for TMJ disorders, such as non-invasive therapy, bite splints, injections, or even surgery. However, if left untreated, TMJ disorders can cause headaches, muscle pain, malocclusion, and damage to the teeth from grinding or clenching. Treatment for TMD is an excellent way to resolve discomfort and prevent damage to teeth from grinding.
A formal examination and diagnosis of TMJ disorder is necessary to begin treatment. Your dentist will assess the severity of the condition and decide which treatment is best for you. Generally, the first step involves conservative treatments such as self-care, physical therapy, and bite guards. Medications may also be prescribed to loosen the jaw or alleviate pain. If conservative treatments are not successful, surgery or joint injections may be recommended.
How Can I Benefit From A Mouth Guard?
Mouth guards are a great way to protect your teeth, gums, and other supporting structures against potential damage, trauma, and injury. There are two types of mouth guards available: over-the-counter (OTC) and custom-fitted dental mouth guards. OTC mouth guards can be handy for occasional use, but if you need a more reliable solution, you should consider getting a custom-fitted guard from your dentist.
Wearing a dental mouth guard can offer you a variety of benefits. For instance, it can prevent tooth grinding and bruxism at night, protect your teeth and lips during high-impact sports, act as a barrier between your lips and oral appliances (like metal braces), and protect fragile bridgework.
Doctors Fedorciw, Massoumi & Kolbig in Cromwell, CT have over 30 years of combined dental experience. With their great team and dedication to compassionate and modern dentistry, they ensure that each patient has a great experience. Whether you are in need of family & restorative dental procedures like fillings & cleanings or if you are interested in enhancing your smile with cosmetic dentistry, our office is ready to help. Call 860-635-4666 and schedule your appointment today!
