Whether you’re diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and preventive cleanings — or have fallen behind with your oral hygiene routine — it’s never too late to take control of our oral health.
Here’s a 5-point checklist to help you determine if your teeth and gums are as healthy as you think.
1. Self Assess Your Mouth
Open wide in front of a mirror. Take a close look at your teeth and gums. What do they look like?
If you’ve neglected your oral health over the past several years, you’re not alone. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 50% of American adults over the age of 30 are suffering from some form of gum disease — which is the leading cause of tooth loss.
Maybe your teeth have become stained and discolored, or the time has come to replace old and worn out dental fillings. Whatever the case, it’s never too late to improve your smile.
2. Schedule a Check-Up
Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, twice a day, regular professional cleanings are a must to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.
At your check-up, we will clean your teeth and check for signs of gum disease and infection. If it’s been a while since your last appointment — don’t worry! We may recommend a deep cleaning appointment known as root planing and scaling to get rid of pockets of bacteria buildup.
3. How Often are You Brushing and Flossing?
If you’re not brushing at least twice a day, and flossing at least once a day then you’re putting your oral health at risk.
Flossing is important because the bristles of your toothbrush can’t reach all the way between your teeth and gums. Floss is the best way to clear away food particles after every meal.
Is there a right time to brush?
Ideally, you should brush your teeth after a meal. However, there are some situations when it is better to wait a bit before reaching for a toothbrush. For example, if you eat acidic foods like fruit, wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth to protect your tooth enamel.
4. Be Mindful of What You Eat
What you eat affects your teeth in more ways than you think. It should go without saying that eating a lot of sugar will put your teeth at risk for decay. Daily coffee and red wine can also lead to stains and discoloration over time. However, a diet full of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water can promote healthy teeth and gums.
5. Trust THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®
From professional teeth whitening treatments to dental implants for full or partial tooth loss, there are a number of options available to help get your smile and oral health back on track.
Get started today with a consultation at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®. Schedule an appointment online or give us a call: 626-624-4030
About THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures, complete dental reconstruction and TMJ/Headache management. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable up-to-date dentistry and a team who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.
