Reap the benefits of professional dental care

It takes two: Dental hygiene

Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and using mouthwash may not be enough to keep one’s teeth clean. In the continuing battle for healthy teeth, people will need a dentist’s skills to prevent plaque buildup and infection. Yet, people may only go to the dentist once every year or so and not clean all of the dark crevices between their teeth.

Reaping the benefits of professional dental care

When plaque and food particles are left between teeth, they can lead to infection and tooth decay. Also known as tooth caries, tooth decay can lead to dental implants or tooth extraction being necessary. Fortunately, dentists have the tools and skills to prevent infection. People merely need to visit the dentist and receive treatment.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, states that from 2011 to 2012 17.5 percent of children ages five to 19 had untreated tooth decay. Within the same year, the CDC states that 27 percent of adults between 20 to 44 years of age had the same problem.

Without a proper dental cleaning at a professional dentist, people will not be able to guarantee that their mouths are plaque-free. One of the main reasons people may avoid dental care is the cost. A person who does not have dental insurance will avoid a regularly-scheduled cleaning and risk infection. By scheduling a dental cleaning twice a year, patients can prevent the worst and get the necessary treatment if they are struggling with anything.

The steps you can take

However, more people are beginning to understand the need for dental cleanings and treatment as the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) writes that at the end of 2014, around 205 million Americans had dental benefits in some form of insurance plan. With this improvement in access to dental care, patients are also able to learn how their efforts can mix with their dentist’s and make for a healthy smile.

A dental cleaning twice a year is necessary to help prevent tooth decay and make sure that one’s mouth is healthy, but that will only be twice a year. The rest of the time, the patient needs to step it up and keep his or her mouth clean with proper dental hygiene. Mouthhealthy.org explains that dental disease is preventable and that “You can practice preventive dentistry on yourself by adopting these healthy habits,” including:

• Always brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss between your teeth once a day
• Eat a balanced diet
• Limit between-meal snacks
• Schedule regular dental visits

By following these basic steps, a patient can continue to keep his or her teeth in healthy condition. No matter how hard you brush or floss, there is always a chance for you to miss food particles or plaque between the teeth. If you have not been to the dentist in over six months, do not hesitate to call and schedule an appointment. The top priority will be in making sure that your teeth are in healthy condition.

Fort Lee Family Dental

At Fort Lee Family Dental in Fort Lee, NJ, we will customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule. Our professional staff creates a calm atmosphere for you during the appointment and treatment process. If you have any questions or are unsure of what is causing the pain in your teeth, do not hesitate to call us.

We will answer any questions and make sure you get all of the necessary information. We can help prevent damage to your teeth and set you on track for a lifetime of pristine oral health. At Fort Lee Family Dental, your experience with us and your dental health are our prime concern.