Are you really doing enough to stay safe from problems like tooth decay and gum disease? It is hard to overstate the value of good oral health habits if you want to avoid problems that might require restorative dental treatment. The right approach to hygiene is just one of several factors that can determine your relative risks for difficulties. Your diet, and the care you take to protect your teeth from wear and tear, can be important to managing your dental health. At our Houston, TX dentist’s office, we provide encouragement and guidance to patients as part of our commitment to helping people keep their teeth in good condition. Remember that in addition to protecting your teeth and gums, good oral health can help you avoid problems with jaw pain, headaches, and more!
Is It Time To Make Changes To Your Oral Hygiene Routine?
If your recent trips to the dentist’s office led to the placement of dental fillings or dental crowns, it can be hard to argue against the benefits of changing your routine. With that said, it may be a good idea to re-examine your current approach to brushing and flossing even if you have avoided trouble with cavities and gum disease. Changes in your life that affect your diet, your stress levels, or your physical health may change your vulnerability to tooth decay. Sometimes, checking in on yourself can make you aware of how you have let yourself fall out of good practices. You can see a few of the common mistakes people with “good” oral hygiene routines can make:
- Failing to replace a toothbrush after three months of use
- Not flossing on a daily basis
- Doing an insufficient job cleaning at their gum line
- Brushing for less than two minutes, and leaving certain areas of their smile poorly treated
Dealing With A Teeth Grinding Or Clenching Problem
Have you picked up a teeth grinding or clenching issue? It is possible to develop this habit if you are under stress, or if you have unresolved problems with your bite function. Failure to bring this behavior under control can lead to serious wear and tear on your teeth, and even damages that affect the quality of your smile. If you are grinding your teeth while you sleep, you can make changes to your sleep position, focus on relaxation techniques before bed, and cut back on alcohol and caffeine to bring it under control. You can also talk to your dentist and receive a custom mouth guard to keep your smile safe.
Don’t Ignore Signs Of Dental Trouble
Ignoring symptoms that point to poor dental health can be a big mistake, one that leads to complications that will affect your treatment options. If you think something is wrong, bring the matter up as soon as you can – if necessary, your dentist can schedule you for an emergency appointment.
Your Houston, TX Dentist’s Office Provides Quality Oral Health Care Services
At our Houston, TX dentist’s office, our team is prepared to help people with their oral health concerns. To find out more, call Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry at (281) 974-4494.
