What Is Preventive Dentistry?

smithpreventivedentistryIn short, preventive dentistry is caring for your teeth in order to keep them healthy. This is why your dentist recommends you get biannual cleanings and checkups to make sure your gums and teeth are at their healthiest throughout the year. Preventive dentistry is avoiding decay, tooth loss, gum disease, enamel wear, cavities – the list could go on forever! By practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist, you are preventing your overall health from being compromised by bacteria. What is preventive dentistry?

How To Practice Preventive Dentistry

You can practice preventive dentistry even if you’re not at the dentist – how? By practicing good oral hygiene! Brushing and flossing at least twice per day will ensure that you keep a healthy mouth. If you notice that you have bad breath, you may even want to throw in some antibacterial mouthwash at the end of your routine to combat the bacteria even further.

In order to brush correctly and efficiently, it is recommended that you use a soft-bristle toothbrush. The ones with harder bristles can damage your gums or even your enamel if you’re brushing hard enough. Remember to brush in circles, around your gum line, and for at least two minutes at a time.