A family dental care routine that works is essential to overall oral health. The routine is comprised of daily brushing, flossing, and eating habits combined with regular visits to the dentist for a dental exam and cleaning. Visiting the dentist is not something that people think about until they have a problem, but making regular appointments can help prevent issues from occurring.
The Importance of Routine Dental Care
Oral problems don’t always show symptoms until they are serious, but taking the time to visit the dentist for a routine checkup every six months can help to prevent them. During an oral exam, a dentist will examine your teeth for signs of decay, gum disease, and other problems by looking at your face, neck, mouth, and jaw. They may also take X-rays to get a better look at your teeth and the roots of your molars. X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool that help to identify and address problems before they become serious.
In addition to dental X-rays, your dentist will perform a thorough dental cleaning. During this procedure, they will remove tartar from the surface of your teeth and under your gums. They will also remove plaque, which is a bacteria-laden biofilm that eats away at the enamel of your teeth and leads to tooth decay.
When a person brushes and flosses their teeth on a daily basis, they can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day will remove food particles from the teeth and eliminate bacteria that can lead to gum disease. A routine that includes using mouthwash to cleanse the teeth and freshen a person’s breath can also be helpful.
The importance of a dental care routine that works is further highlighted by the fact that the majority of oral health problems can be prevented by visiting the dentist on a regular basis. During these visits, dental health professionals can assess the condition of your teeth and gums and offer advice on best practices for brushing and flossing to keep your smile healthy.
How to Choose a Family Dentist
Finding a family dentist in Northbrook can be done by asking for recommendations from friends and family members or by reading online reviews. Once you have a list of potential candidates, make sure that they have experience treating patients of all ages and can accommodate your scheduling needs.
Another advantage of choosing the best Northbrook dentist is that they can track your entire household’s dental history in one location, which is beneficial when diagnosing and treating issues. In addition, they can provide educational resources and age-appropriate dental treatments for children to encourage good oral health from an early age. By following these simple tips, you can find a family dentist that will keep your entire family’s oral health in great shape.