Wondering if preventive dental care really is that necessary? Well as Benjamin Franklin famously once said: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” It may seem easy to get a little loose with your at-home dental regimen and to skip out on your annual dental visits when you don’t think you have any issues. The problem is, that could be costing your health even more in the long run. A little bit of preventive care can keep more serious problems (that are also more expensive to treat) at bay.
The Power of Daily Brushing & Flossing
Preventive dental care isn’t just a service you get at the dentist’s office. It’s also what you should be doing every day on your own at home! Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day are some of the easiest and most effective ways you can prevent cavities. By doing so, you’re making sure that cavity-causing bacteria aren't able to make their home on your precious teeth.
The Insight of a Dental Professional
The standard recommendation is that you come into a dental office for a routine visit, which includes a standard dental cleaning and a dental exam, at least every six months. Some patients will benefit from more frequent visits. A trained hygienist will deep-clean your teeth and a dentist will evaluate what’s going on with your teeth and gums. With their experience and modern tools, they’ll be able to spot issues you might not be able to see yourself. These issues include tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and more. A dentist can give you tips for handling a variety of dental-related situations and suggest specific ways to defend against cavities and tooth loss. They can also determine if you struggle with nighttime teeth grinding or sleep apnea.
Your Dentist in Fredericksburg, VA
Here at North River Dental Care, we really can’t stress enough how important preventive dental care is to your oral health. At-home daily oral hygiene and biannual cleanings and checkups will reduce your risk of a host of oral health issues, including cavities.
Our team is always here to answer any questions you might have about how to take better care of your smile. And if you experience a dental issue or dental emergency, we're here to help. Contact us today for more information about our comprehensive dental services and financial options.
