Ask an endodontist what their primary job focus is, and they’ll likely say it’s to preserve their patients’ natural teeth to the best of their ability.
While there are some dental treatments that will replace a severely damaged or decayed tooth with a natural-looking prosthetic, your endodontist will always try to avoid an artificial tooth in favor of saving your natural one. When they feel that there is a high success rate with saving your tooth, they’re going to encourage endodontic treatment services.
Talk to your dentist or call Dr. Burton Waxman and Dr. Lina Jarboe at Access Endodontics today at 410.304.7226 to learn more.
Healthy Dental Habits
The best way to maintain good oral health and preserve your natural teeth is to develop healthy dental habits that you practice regularly. After all, avoiding a tooth infection is a much better strategy than going in for treatment once the decay has already begun.
1. Brush Twice a Day
Perhaps the single most important dental habit you can have is to consistently brush your teeth. Brushing removes food particles that lead to the development of decay-causing plaque, and it also keeps your breath fresh.
The longer you go without brushing, the more likely you will develop oral hygiene issues down the road. Brushing twice a day every day should be your baseline.
2. Brush Properly
Sticking to a twice-a-day brushing routine is important, but it may all be in vain if you’re brushing improperly. Make sure to cover all the surfaces of your teeth and brush in small circular patterns. You should brush for at least two minutes every time.
It’s also important to make sure you’re replacing your toothbrush every three or four months and that you’re using an ADA-recommended toothpaste with fluoride.
3. Floss Once a Day
Flossing is one of the most overlooked parts of proper oral hygiene, but it’s crucial for avoiding teeth infection and gum disease. There are areas of your mouth that a toothbrush simply can’t reach, which means some food particles will stick around and potentially cause issues if you don’t floss regularly.
String floss, floss picks, and water flossers are all good options. Just be sure to stick to a daily habit.
4. Use Mouthwash with Fluoride
Mouthwash can help keep your mouth fresh, and if it contains fluoride, it will aid in protecting your natural teeth. Whether using a big bottle, or a travel-sized one to rinse daily, mouthwash is certainly a good tool for preserving your dental health.
5. Watch What You Eat
Sugars in the food you eat interact with the bacteria in your mouth to become cavity-causing acids. This means that avoiding high-sugar foods is one of the most effective ways to protect your teeth.
You don’t necessarily have to drop sugary foods altogether, but moderation is crucial, and rinsing your mouth after you’ve indulged is always a good idea.
6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Practicing healthy dental habits at home can do a lot to protect your natural teeth, but it’s still important to see your dentist once every six months for a routine examination and cleaning.
Your dentist can catch issues before they have a chance to develop into something serious. They can also clean areas of your mouth that you can’t reach on your own.
Other Tips for a Healthy Smile
Here are a few additional pointers to keep your teeth healthy and smile bright:
- Rinse with water after meals
- Invest in a good toothbrush
- Don’t ignore potential dental issues
- Don’t forget to brush your tongue
- Stay hydrated
If you have any more questions about how to protect your natural teeth, speak with your dentist today.
Access Endodontics Can Help with Protecting Your Natural Teeth
Sometimes even the best oral hygiene routine isn’t enough to prevent issues with your oral health. Access Endodontics can help you protect your natural teeth. Dr. Burton Waxman, Dr. Lina Jarboe, and their team of dedicated dental professionals are committed to providing expert care and healthy smiles to all their patients.
Contact Access Endodontics today by calling 410.304.7226 if you need endodontic treatment services.