San Francisco dentist explains the importance of professional teeth cleaning and check ups
When choosing a dentist, many patients focus on the dental problems that can be fixed or corrected. From restorative care such as cavity fillings, root canals, or reversing gum disease to cosmetic dental care like teeth whitening, veneers, and cosmetic bonding, many patients are impressed to see before and after photos in a dentist’s portfolio. Patients actively search for dentists who are educated, experienced, and who provide gentle care.
While this type of care is important, it’s also critical not to lose focus on the care that can prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. Preventative dental care requires attention from both the patient and the dentist. However, it’s much easier to prevent a dental problem than it is to fix one.
Trusted dentist, Dr. Leo Arellano knows that preventative care is critical to both oral health and to a patient’s overall health and wellness, and he is committed to providing care that will benefit the patient’s entire body. Here, Dr. Arellano explains how patients can be sure they’re keeping their mouth in top shape.
- Brush and floss every single day. Brushing and flossing are two of the most important dental health habits a patient can perform. Not only does brushing make your mouth feel better, it removes food particles and harmful bacteria. Left on the teeth and gums, these bacteria can grow and lead to tooth decay or gum disease.
- Eat a healthy diet. Proper nutrition is important for health reasons, obviously. However, it’s also critical to your oral health. Too many sweets can damage the enamel of the teeth while foods that are high in acid content can also break down the tooth’s enamel. Patients should try to consume a diet made up of protein, dairy, crunchy vegetables and foods that are high in water content.
- Visit the dentist. Regular checkups with your dentist are important for two reasons. First, during the appointment, patients receive a professional cleaning by a trained hygienist using professional tools that allow him or her to reach areas of the mouth that the patient simply cannot reach at home. Secondly, this appointment provides the dentist with a chance to identify trouble spots before they progress into larger problems.
Call for more information about keeping your smile happy and your mouth healthy or to learn more about the services offered at Dr. Leo Arellano General & Cosmetic Dentistry.