Do you dread the idea of visiting the dentist, only to be told that you need extensive restorative treatment, such as root canal therapy? Worse, do you ever worry that you will need a tooth extraction? While these measures are often important to helping restore oral health, in many cases they can be avoided with proper, preventive dental care. If you want to avoid the need for extensive restorative measures, here are just a few of the things you can do to protect your smile.
Make Dental Hygiene a Priority
By brushing your teeth twice a day, and flossing at least once a day, you can help to limit tartar buildup in between dental cleanings. This can help to reduce your risk of cavities, and also gum disease, a chronic condition.
Plus, when you skip flossing, you are missing approximately one third of the teeth’s surface.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Another simple way to protect your smile is by simply eating a healthy diet, one low in sugar and high in nutrients. Like your whole body, your smile needs vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Plus, the less sugar you eat, the less likely you are to struggle with visible tartar buildup that can lead to acidic erosion.
Vegetables and fruits are good choices, because they are high in vitamins and water content, which are both great for the smile. Dairy products can also be good choices, since they’re high in calcium, which his essential to strong teeth.
See the Dentist Quickly When You Suspect Trouble
Another important part of protecting your smile, though, is seeing the dentist regularly for preventive care. Checkups and cleanings can help to remove tartar buildup, often before a problem has developed. Most patients need to visit at least twice a year for preventive care.
That said, if your smile is showing symptoms of problems, you may need to schedule an additional appointment, specifically for restorative treatment. Prompt restorative action is the best way to prevent the need for extensive treatment.
Want to Restore Your Smile?
Preventive dental treatment can help protect against dental issues, like cavities. That said, if you are diagnosed with a dental problem, prompt restorative treatment is necessary. Dr. Burds at Gateway Dental Group provides several restorative treatments. To schedule a restorative visit, call our office today at (515) 244-9565. Located in Des Moines, IA, we are proud to welcome patients from the Des Moines metro area, and all neighboring and nearby communities.