It’s important to have healthy teeth and gums. They contribute to a beautiful smile and support our overall health and well-being, and we are more confident and self-assured when we have healthy teeth and gums. Good dental hygiene and preventive care are essential for a healthy mouth. That’s why our North Vancouver dentists at Peak Dental Arts prioritize dental hygiene and preventive care.
Dental Hygiene and Preventive Care
Dental or oral hygiene and preventive care keep the teeth and gums healthy and disease-free. Brushing twice daily, using mouthwash and flossing are good dental practices you can incorporate at home. Regular visits to your North Vancouver dentist for checks, deep cleaning and fluoride treatments are additional measures dental professionals recommend to maintain a healthy mouth.
The Importance of Preventive Care
Whether you practice oral hygiene at home or visit the dentist regularly, you are on your way to preserving your oral health. These proactive measures prevent cavities, bad breath, gum disease and other dental issues that can develop inside the mouth.
Preventive measures can also reveal dental issues that could become bigger problems if left unchecked. Our North Vancouver dentists can identify potential dental issues early and prevent them from developing into major problems later.
Researchers have found that poor oral health can be linked to diabetes, stroke and cardiovascular diseases, which can be life-threatening. Good oral hygiene and preventive care help reduce this risk.
The Benefits of Preventive Care
Thanks in part to healthy teeth and gums, our smile can be one of our best assets. Here are some other essential benefits of preventive oral care.
Early Detection of Dental Problems and Diseases
Many oral conditions and diseases are avoidable if early signs are caught and treated promptly. Regular visits to your North Vancouver dentists can uncover potential issues, allowing your dentist to treat them quickly. If left unchecked, these problems can lead to severe consequences such as tooth loss, eroded gums and gum disease.
Prevention of Dental Problems and Gum Disease
Tartar and plaque – contributors to tooth decay and other dental trouble – build up on teeth over time. Preventive measures rid teeth and gums of these harmful substances.
Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Poor oral health can be linked to poor heart health. In heart valve patients, for instance, infections or inflammation in the mouth can cause heart valve infections. A healthy mouth reduces the risk of cardiovascular and other diseases.
Reduced Need for Restorative Work
Retaining your natural teeth is ideal. Our natural teeth are stronger than any artificial replacements. Preventive care keeps teeth and gums healthy, avoiding the need for restorative work. Restorative dentistry, which includes fillings, crowns, bridges and dentures, restores the function and aesthetics of your teeth.
Decreased Cost of Dental Treatments
Preventive practices can save you money in the long run. The healthier your teeth and gums are, the less you’ll have to pay for costly treatment and repairs. Typically, the cost of maintaining good oral hygiene is far less than restorative treatments.
Tips for Good Oral Health
Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy mouth and strong teeth.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes.
- Use dental floss after brushing to rid teeth and gums of lingering food particles.
- Visit your North Vancouver dentist at least once every six months.
- Use mouthwash daily to remove bacteria and other germs.
- Drink fluoridated water. Fluoride toughens the enamel – the hard outer portion of the teeth
- Quit smoking. Smoking increases your risk of gum and cardiovascular disease.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fibre.
- Limit sugary and acidic food intake, which can erode enamel and promote cavity formation.
Your North Vancouver Dentists
Peak Dental Arts takes your your oral health seriously. Call 604-670-5423 or complete our contact form to schedule your next dental cleaning and examination with one of our dental professionals.
