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General dentists diagnose, treat, and manage overall oral healthcare needs. These needs include gum care, root canals, fillings, crowns, veneers, and bridges. Patients can practice daily hygiene and make informed choices that impact their oral health. Here are some tips for handling dental issues:
Brush and Floss Daily
Daily brushing and flossing are key components of oral hygiene routines. While many people brush their teeth, not everyone flosses the same way. Brushing removes plaque and food from tooth surfaces, while flossing cleans the tight spaces between teeth. Together, these actions help keep your mouth clean.
Proper technique is helpful for both brushing and flossing. You might use a manual or electric toothbrush, or use a soft-bristle brush with fluoride toothpaste to clean each tooth. When you floss, the floss needs to curve around each tooth in a C-shape. A consistent routine helps keep your teeth and gums clean from day to day.
Schedule Regular Visits
Attending regular dental appointments allows a dentist to monitor your oral health. A general dentist performs examinations, and a hygienist may perform cleanings. During these visits, the dental team checks the condition of your teeth and gums. This provides a baseline for tracking changes over time. Your dental history informs the frequency of these appointments.
The dentist can check for any developing problems. Problems may not be visible or cause pain initially. The examination involves checking each tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. X-rays are sometimes taken to see the parts of teeth that are not visible. Regular check-ups create opportunities for early detection and professional cleaning.
Cleanings performed by a dentist remove tartar buildup. Plaque hardens into tartar, which you cannot remove with a toothbrush at home. They may use special tools to scale away tartar deposits. After cleaning, the dentist can polish your teeth, and you’ll be ready to leave. These visits support the home care you perform.
Address Symptoms Promptly
Recognizing and responding to dental symptoms is part of managing oral health. Pain, swelling, or bleeding gums are signals that merit attention. A new sensitivity to hot or cold foods also indicates a possible issue. Ignoring these signs may lead to more complex problems later. When you notice a change, you can take action.
You might experience a variety of symptoms. A toothache can range from a dull ache to sharp pain, so you will want to get it checked. Other symptoms that suggest a need for evaluation include:
- Bad breath
- Loose adult tooth
- Persistent pain
- Oral sores
Avoid Tobacco
Using tobacco products introduces risks to your oral health. These products include cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco. Tobacco use may be linked to a range of dental problems, and it affects both teeth and gums. Because the chemicals in tobacco may affect the tissues in your mouth, they can cause various health issues.
Visit a General Dentist
A general dentist is a partner in your long-term oral health management. They offer a wide range of services and educate patients on dental care. You can work with your dentist to create a plan that fits your specific situation. Find a dental professional to support your oral health. Schedule an appointment with a clinic today to begin.
