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Preventive Care
Preventive Care
At Vacaville Dental Smiles, we recognize the significance of effective preventive care. This involves correctly brushing and flossing your teeth. Ensuring good dental preventive care is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth, which includes your gums and teeth.
Motivations for Seeking a Preventive Program
Not many are aware that oral health significantly influences overall well-being. Neglecting oral hygiene can exacerbate various illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, and COPD. It can also impact pregnancy by increasing the risk of low birth weight babies, which is linked to lung and heart conditions, and learning disorders.
In the United States, over a quarter (27%) of adults have untreated tooth decay, while nearly half (46%) of Americans over 30 display signs of gum disease. Severe gum disease affects 1 in 10 adults, and a surprising 78% of Americans have had at least one cavity by the age of 17. These issues can be easily prevented by maintaining a daily routine of brushing and flossing.
Our Preventive Care Program Information
To maintain optimal oral health, it is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day to eliminate plaque and food particles that adhere to your teeth. We suggest brushing for two minutes or more, as many people tend to rush through this routine. Ensure that you reach every surface of each tooth, including the inner and outer sides. Additionally, brushing your tongue can help keep your breath fresh before moving on to flossing.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it is advised to floss your teeth at least once daily to remove plaque buildup between your teeth. Flossing targets the plaque and food debris that may have been missed by your toothbrush. Neglecting to floss can lead to issues like tartar buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
Although flossing may not be a favorite task for many, it is essential for oral hygiene. You can use traditional dental floss or specially designed picks for flossing. While flossing should not be painful, it may feel unfamiliar at first, so consistency is key. With practice, flossing will become a natural part of your dental care routine.
Vacaville Dental Smiles also advises against the following items as they can be particularly damaging to your teeth and general oral health:
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Smoking and chewing tobacco
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Drinking soda and sports drinks
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Consuming gummy candy or dried fruits
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Chewing on ice
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Eating acidic foods such as citrus
If you engage in any of the activities mentioned, we suggest thoroughly rinsing with water afterwards and, if feasible, brushing your teeth.
Here are some intriguing and entertaining facts about teeth and oral hygiene:
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Tooth enamel, the hardest substance in the body.
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On average, people only brush their teeth for 45-70 seconds, well below the recommended 2-minute minimum.
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Dental plaque consists of over 300 types of bacteria.
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Skipping flossing means neglecting about 40% of each tooth's surface.
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Right-handed individuals tend to chew on the right side of their mouth, and vice versa.
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Blue toothbrushes are more popular than red ones.
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Giraffes possess only bottom teeth.
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Dogs have 42 teeth, cats have 30, pigs have 44, and armadillos have 104!
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A snail's mouth is as small as the head of a pin but can have over 25,000 teeth! Just imagine having to brush that many!
We welcome a wide range of dental insurance plans, so remember to inquire before booking your appointment. If you're in search of a new dental practice, your search ends here! Contact us today at 707-416-4875 to arrange your first oral examination!
FAQ Preventive Care Program
How can I tell whether have gum disease?
Gum disease often goes unnoticed since it is usually painless and not easily visible to most individuals. Look out for these typical signs and symptoms: bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and gums that bleed during brushing. You might not experience all these symptoms, but even one could indicate the presence of gum disease.
Can I still get tooth decay?
You are still susceptible to tooth decay. The same dental plaque that leads to gum inflammation can also contribute to decay, particularly if you frequently consume sugary foods and drinks. Decay risks are heightened at the gum edges when there is gum recession, as the tooth 'neck' lacks enamel protection.
Why is prevention important in dentistry?
Maintaining Strong Teeth through Preventive Dentistry; While preventive dentistry helps to strengthen your teeth, occasional chips and cracks may still occur. Regular dental checkups enable dentists to identify and repair small cracks by applying dental fillings, preserving your dental aesthetics. Additionally, preventing decay and cavities can positively affect your overall health.
