Preventive Dentistry in Cary, NC
Regular preventive care is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a minimum of two professional dental checkups annually. In addition to seeing Dr. Qureshy for exams and cleanings, it’s important to practice good hygiene habits at home. Preventive dentistry allows you to better manage dental disease at its earliest stages, which can protect your smile without breaking the bank. Daily tooth brushing should begin in infancy when the first tooth erupts. In-office and at-home preventive care should continue throughout childhood and into adulthood. Remember, your teeth must last you a lifetime.
Practices for Healthy Teeth
Preventive dentistry is the practice of caring for your teeth and gums to avoid enamel wear, cavities, gum disease, and other oral conditions. There are several forms of preventive dentistry that can help you maintain clean, strong, and white teeth, such as:
- Brushing: Tooth brushing is the most important component of preventive dentistry. Brush daily with fluoride toothpaste approved by the ADA. Also brush your tongue to freshen your breath and remove excess bacteria.
- Flossing: Floss between teeth to remove stuck-on food debris. Ask your dentist for a demonstration to learn the proper way to floss.
- Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet plays a major role in the health of your smile. Keep sugary foods to a minimum and eat a varied diet rich in vitamins.
- Dental Visits: Visit Dr. Qureshy at least once a year for a complete examination and cleaning. If you’re at a higher risk of tooth decay, visit twice a year.
Home care alone is not enough to prevent cavities and gum disease. Regular visits to our Cary dentist is necessary to maintain optimal oral health. During your checkup, Dr. Qureshy will offer a hard and soft tissue examination, oral hygiene instruction, and a screening for gum disease. Together, these services will give you a solid understanding of the condition of your teeth and how you can improve your health.
With proper preventive dentistry habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis, as well as secondary problems linked to poor oral care like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, and respiratory disease. In addition to reducing your overall risk of oral health problems, practicing preventive dentistry can save you money by reducing your need for restorative services. Do what’s best for your smile by scheduling your next dental checkup today.