Your teeth are pretty important. Their health contributes to your smile and your eating. Plus, nobody wants pain of any kind in their mouth! With most Americans not getting dental insurance included even if they have medical insurance, it’s more critical than ever to avoid needing costly dental visits. What can you do to avoid an expensive trip to the dentist?
Follow a Dental Routine
Are you brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush, and a toothpaste with fluoride? Once that’s part of your morning and evening routine (and after lunch if you want to be an overachiever), you need to make sure you’re also flossing. According to 123 Dentist, flossing technique needs to be gentle and careful- no sawing into your gums! If you have sensitive teeth, there are toothpastes available to help sensitive, hurting gums. If you have sensitive taste buds, there are now toothpaste flavors for just about any palate! The important thing is getting into those good habits.
Limit Damaging Foods
Stellar Kids says that acidic fruits can break down tooth enamel and increase sensitivity. Acidic drinks, such as sodas and coffee, can as well. Protect your mouth by limiting those things which can cause enamel damage. If you love, for example, lemon juice in your water, rinse your mouth with fresh water afterwards. This can help get rid of some of the acidity that can eat into your teeth. Remember, even though enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it can still be damaged, and it doesn’t grow back.
Have Great Genetics
According to NIDCR News, some people are just predisposed, whether through having genetic predisposition, through poor childhood nutrition and dental habits, or through familiar passing of dental caries (or tooth decay) bacteria, to have more tooth-oriented issues. If you’re eating healthy things, brushing and flossing, and trying to take care of your teeth, and still have issues, don’t condemn yourself. Take your dentist’s counsel on what to do to protect your teeth from further damage, and visit your dentist often to nip problems in the bud.
There are places to go and have your teeth checked out in almost every community. Your local dentist will often set up a plan for financing needs, if you cannot do necessary care out of pocket. The more you stay proactive about your dental health, the more you’ll avoid bigger expenses to save your teeth later!
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