Preventive Dental Care: Practices, Services, and Benefits

by | Oct 29, 2021

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Preventive dental care pertains to the actions and choices you make to prevent problems with your oral health. This is an important aspect of dental hygiene that every person should practice. Having good oral habits reduces the probability of developing severe diseases, even as you get older. Read on for an overview of these practices. 

How To Practice Preventive Dental Care

There are many preventive dental activities that you can do on your own. These include regular flossing, brushing your teeth twice a day, and using mouthwash to rinse out food particles in your mouth. They also involve other, more specific tasks for some people, like wearing a mouth guard for those who grind their teeth at night or participate in extensive sporting activities. This covering protects their teeth from gum recession and dental injuries.

It would be best if you also eat a balanced diet that will help improve your oral health. Foods that are good for your teeth include dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt, fiber-rich vegetables and fruits, fluoride-rich food, and green or black tea. On the other hand, you should avoid sticky and sweet candies, acidic foods, carbonated drinks, and starchy food like potato chips. Similarly, it’s essential to drink plenty of water and avoid tobacco products as they are a risk factor for developing gum diseases and even cancer.

Services Under Preventive Dental Care

Aside from these good hygiene practices, preventive care also involves services you can get at your local dentist. These include biannual oral exams and teeth cleanings and some types of x-rays. They also cover sealants for permanent molars and fluoride treatments for preventing cavities and tooth decay. 

Benefits of Preventive Dental Care

As the common saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Listed below are the benefits you can get when you practice preventive dental care.

  • It helps identify the signs of dental problems or diseases, which can help cut down on treatment costs. 
  • It lowers the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other severe dental issues. 
  • It reduces the probability of developing dental problems related to chronic medical conditions like eating disorders and cancer. 
  • It prevents cavities, teeth staining, and halitosis or bad breath. 

Get in Touch With Your Dentist

Preventive dental care is the easiest way to maintain good oral health that can last even as you grow older. If you have questions about these practices, schedule an appointment with our dental professionals at Aegis Dental Group or Angola Dental Center. Our dental offices in Warsaw, Angola, and Goshen are always open for your queries and dental needs. Call us today!