It’s recommended that every person visits their local dentist twice a year for a routine cleaning and checkup. During these biannual exams, a Dentist in Kona will look for signs of tooth decay and gum disease. If problems are found, a treatment plan will be discussed. There are a few things every person should do at home to help them get better results at their regular checkups.
Floss Everyday
All dental patients have been told they need to floss everyday, but many people still don’t take the time to do this important task. Flossing is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease. Bacteria thrives in the warm, moist environment of the mouth. While brushing removes some of this bacteria, it can’t reach between the teeth or below the gum-line. This is where flossing comes into play. Flossing removes this hard-to-reach bacteria and reduces a person’s chances of developing gum disease. Carter S. Yokoyama D.D.S. recommends patients floss at least once a day.
Brush After Meals
As soon as food enters the mouth, it has the potential of damaging teeth. Leftover food particles become trapped between teeth and on the surface. If not brushed away quickly, these particles will harden into plaque. This increases a person’s chances of developing cavities. Brushing after every meal is the best way to prevent cavities. If it is not possible to brush after a meal, consider rinsing the mouth with water. Chewing gum may also help to prevent plaque from forming.
Protect Teeth
Many people unknowingly grind or clench their teeth. This forceful action may lead to broken teeth or a sore jaw. Patients who grind their teeth at night need to protect their smile when they sleep. A Dentist in Kona can create a custom mouth-guard for the patient to wear in the evening. This will prevent the patient from being able to grind their teeth. Wearing a mouth-guard helps to reduce chipped and worn down teeth.
The way a person cares for their teeth between dental visits will have an impact at their next appointment. Patients who floss everyday, brush after every meal, and protect their teeth from grinding are more likely to have better checkups. Be sure to browse website to see other ways you can improve your oral hygiene at home.