What Oral Health Advice Can a Dentist Give You?

  Mar 18, 2024

Dentists are experts in oral health. The majority of their work revolves around performing dental procedures and surgeries. However, a doctor’s role also involves advising patients on the latest guidelines.

As part of their continuing professional development (CPD), they must undergo regular training and stay up to date with the latest teeth wellness recommendations. CPD ensures that they can convey accurate and reliable information to their patients about dental health and oral hygiene.

You might wonder what kind of dental well-being suggestions your specialist can offer. Whether you are registered with a dentist in Denham Springs or elsewhere in the country, you should be able to get advice regarding the following aspects of it.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Dentists are experts in oral hygiene. They are aware of the latest government recommendations regarding mouth hygiene practices for optimal health. Your expert will likely provide you with a hygiene consultation. 

They may provide patient information leaflets with written guidance as well for you to read when you get home. However, if there are specific aspects that you are unsure about, raise your concerns with your doctor during your next consultation so they can offer tailored advice according to your unique needs.

U.S. Oral Care Market

(This graph shows the US oral care market, by size and product, in 2022, in US$ billion).

Brushing

Most of us are aware of brushing our teeth twice a day, but do we know that it is pivotal to keep certain things in mind while doing it? Brushing teeth means removing plaque and bacteria and keeping the mouth fresh, however, using the wrong techniques can make things worse. 

For example, using a hard-bristled toothbrush and cleaning too hard can injure the enamel and the gums. Dentists usually recommend brushing in small circular motions and using a soft-bristled brush.

Flossing

Flossing is often forgotten about in the topic of oral hygiene. However, it is just as elemental as brushing while maintaining optimal tooth and gum health.

Your dentist can demonstrate how to floss properly and recommend specific brand brands or types of floss to suit your dental needs. Regular flossing can help to remove as much food and built-up bacteria as possible following brushing to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Fluoride 

Some doctors suggest utilizing fluorides as well. It comes from an element in the earth’s soil called fluorine. It is believed that fluoride prevents cavities and is commonly used in toothpaste and mouthwash.

It is also said that not integrating fluoride into your routine can lead to tooth decay. 

No Smoking

Specialists strongly suggest not smoking as it affects the body’s immune system and makes it difficult to heal tissues including those in the mouth. Smoking not only affects the appearance of the mouth like teeth yellowing, but increases the risk of gum diseases.

Sugary Foods

We all know eating sugary and starch-filled food can lead to cavities. Specialists suggest limiting the use of sugar products in a patient’s diet to avoid adverse mental health outcomes. Experts also stated that starchy foods like crackers, breads, chips, or pasta too, can cause tooth decay. 

Common Oral Health Issues

Your dentist will be able to inform you about the most common dental wellness problems that people face. Being aware of these common issues can help you recognize their signs and symptoms if you ever experience them yourself.

Not only will the expert inform you about common oral wellness problems, but they will also inform you about the best method for preventing and managing these conditions once they have already developed. Effective prevention and management strategies are vital for maintaining your mouth’s well-being throughout your lifespan and avoiding the need for extensive cosmetic dentistry interventions.

Dietary Guidance

Although they aren’t registered dietitians, they have great nutritional knowledge. As part of their training to become qualified and licensed specialists, they must undergo nutrition education, focusing particularly on the foods and nutrients that impact oral wellness. 

For example, your doctor may be able to advise you on consuming a healthy and well-balanced diet that includes adequate calcium and vitamin D intake to strengthen your teeth. They may offer advice on how you can reduce your sugar consumption to minimize the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and associated dental well-being issues.

Do You Know?
The WHO estimates that the global average prevalence of tooth loss is almost 7% for people aged 20 years and older.

Final Thoughts

Practicing good dental care from childhood to adulthood can provide an individual shield from potential mouth problems and keep their teeth and gums in good condition. It is vital to follow a daily routine to achieve a healthy life. 


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