It may sound surprising, but nearly 30 percent of Americans do not brush their teeth every day. What is worse is 23% of those people only brush their teeth every two to three days. These are facts that make dental hygienists all over the country cringe. So, what can be done to help increase dental education and hygiene? Read further to get the best tips from a dental hygienist.
It Starts At Home
While you can see a dentist every year and have your teeth cleaned (which we will address in a minute), nothing can substitute good brushing and flossing at home. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, or someone trying to do their best for their overall health, we cannot stress the importance of daily brushing enough. Dentists recommend brushing twice each day for two minutes per session.
We also recommend flossing daily to remove any excess bacteria that may have gotten stuck in the harder-to-reach places. Teaching your kids how to take care of their teeth from the time they are toddlers can give them excellent dental health into adulthood.
Check Your Diet
Many Americans do not have dental insurance and cannot afford to see a dentist. While this is a separate issue that is worth addressing, we understand. We have tried to make an appointment at our office accessible and affordable by providing new patients with an initial exam, cleaning, and a set of x-rays for just $59. However, we realize that even that may be out of reach for some. If you are hoping to improve your oral health without spending money right away, a good tip is to check your diet. Diets high in sugary drinks and foods will cause cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and a myriad of other issues that may not even be dental related. You can find a list of foods that are good for your teeth here.
Don’t Skip Cleanings
Scheduling regular dental cleanings every six months is essential to your overall oral health for those who are able. Not only do dental hygienists clean all the gunk and build-up that has been sitting on the surface of your teeth for the last several weeks, but they also check for other problems that may arise. These problems include tonsil stones, oral cancers, gum disease, infections, or severe tooth decay. In addition, a simple cleaning may prevent a worst-case scenario event down the road.
At Hampden Dental Group, we are proud of our excellent certified dental hygienists and would love to care for your teeth. Our dentists love providing education to people looking for more resources when it comes to improving the health of their teeth and gums. So, schedule an appointment today, or give us a call at 720-848-4929 if you have any questions.
We look forward to serving you!