When you are born, the teeth you will have for a lifetime are developing unseen. Genetics play a role in what they will look like; the color, shape and even the alignment. Cosmetic dentistry can fill in the gaps, straighten them, correct the shape and whiten them. Those services can be provided by a dentist. However, the health and longevity of your teeth depends primarily on your oral hygiene routine. There are a number of steps you should take to keep your teeth for a lifetime.
1. As soon as an infant’s teeth erupt through the gums, they should be wiped gently with a clean cloth. As more teeth develop, you can use an infant sized toothbrush to gently brush the teeth and gums. Around the age of 2, the parent can begin the process of allowing them to start brushing their own teeth, with supervision, of course. They should attend twice yearly dental appointments once their teeth pop through.
2. Around your child’s 6th birthday, permanent molars will begin to appear. There are dentists Wichita KS that will apply a thin sealant to the chewing surface of those teeth, giving them added protection.
3. Brush your teeth twice a day, every day. Brush them after breakfast and then again in the evening, before you go to bed. Floss in the evening, to remove any deposits between your teeth that your brush did not remove. Do not allow bacteria to gain a foothold while you are sleeping.
4. Schedule and keep a dental appointment with one of the dentists in Wichita KS , twice a year for a cleaning and evaluation. Many diseases show up in the mouth first. Early signs of some cancers can be detected by your dentist.
5. Take care of yourself. Eat a healthy diet full of whole foods, fruits and vegetables and fish. Omega-3’s have been shown to reduce inflammation and reduce gum disease. If you do not smoke, do not start. If you do, quit. Avoid sugary foods and wear a mouth-guard if you play sports.
Your teeth are supposed to last a lifetime. With proper care and routine check-ups, you reduce the need for more serious dental intervention. Protect your smile, protect your health. If you have not scheduled an appointment with your dentist for an exam, now is the time. Pick up the phone and make the call to a dentists Wichita KS.
