FAQ’s About Dental Oral Health
Maintaining proper oral health should be everyone’s priority. Many people ignore their dental health until the situation gets worse or they are struck with a nagging pain in some part of their oral cavity. A healthy mouth, gums, and teeth will help you smile better and give you a surge of confidence.
However, many of us don’t have a dentist or an orthodontist by our side all day. In such instances, whenever we experience slight pain or discomfort in any part of our mouth we don’t know whom to turn to. Many people are also not aware of the importance of practicing good oral hygiene. So it’s necessary to throw light on some commonly asked questions dentists often get asked by confused people wanting to maintain great oral health.
FAQ’s About Oral Health
These general dentistry FAQs will turn you from clueless into a well-informed person!
Dentist examining a patient, Image credit: Pixabay
1. Is there a need to visit the dentist regularly?
ANS. It is wise to visit a dentist on a frequent basis for a dental examination. Doing so will prevent the onset of many commonly faced dental issues like cavities, tooth decay, etc. Moreover, many dental health problems are devoid of any symptoms in the earlier stages. In such a case, it becomes important to fix a timely appointment with the dentist so that you can prevent the occurrence of any such oral health condition.
2. Is there any specific type of toothpaste or toothbrush that I should be using?
Toothbrush and toothpaste, Image credits: Pixabay
ANS. Your toothpaste should be strong enough to kill bacteria and clear acids from your teeth. Toothpaste with fluoride is recommended for everyone. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral in food and water that strengthens your teeth. Toothbrushes should have soft bristles that are gentle on your teeth and gums. They should be replaced every 3-4 months.
3. Is flossing teeth necessary?
ANS. It is absolutely necessary to floss. Flossing targets and removes the bacteria that toothbrushes cannot. These are the ones that are found in the tiny spaces between your teeth. In the absence of flossing the plaque continues to build up between the teeth and overtime hardens into tartar. Once this tartar is formed, a dentist visit becomes necessary.
4. Is there a way to spot a dental issue at the earliest?
Girl with hans on teeth, Image credits: Pixabay
ANS. The following signs and symptoms are a reminder that your dental health is at risk.
⦁ Redness and inflamed gums ⦁ Sensitive teeth ⦁ foul breath ⦁ Loose or broken teeth ⦁ Pain in the jaw
5. Do braces hurt? How can I take off my teeth when wearing braces?
ANS. A brace doesn’t hurt your teeth. You need to look after your oral health properly after braces. Brush and your teeth after meals. Keep your retainers at a safe place and make it a habit to clean them regularly. Avoid high-sugar, sticky, and hard foods like chewing gums, corn, and nuts that tend to stick on your braces. Visit your dentist every six months.
6. How can I whiten my teeth?
Teeth whitening effects, Image credits: Pixabay
ANS. Teeth whitening procedures in a dental office are done to attain white teeth and their effect can last up to 3 years. Additionally, you can also purchase teeth-whitening kits available at stores and online. However, consuming alcohol, smoking, or eating acid-rich foods can derail all your efforts to achieve perfectly white, shining teeth.
7. Can I prevent cavities?
ANS. You certainly can. Just Keep in mind a few simple things and you’ll be on your way to cavity-free teeth.
⦁ Spend a good 2-3 minutes brushing your teeth to remove the bacteria completely. Don’t rub the brush vigorously on your teeth. ⦁ Floss every day to remove the bacteria hiding between your teeth. ⦁ Limit sugary food like candy, fruits, and chips. Watch out for the food that sticks to your teeth like peanut butter as they can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Always brush your teeth after consuming such items. ⦁ In case you cannot brush, rinse your mouth with water or chew sugarless gum after eating.
8. Why do children need sealants?
Sealants on teeth, Image credits: Pixabay
ANS. Sealants are a thin coating painted on molars and premolars. They fight cavities by protecting the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars from bacteria that cause tooth decay. They have proved to be highly effective for children. You can ask your dentist whether sealants can be a good option for your child.
We hope that by now that you are perfectly armed against anything that might destroy your dental oral health. Regularly following the tips and techniques mentioned in these FAQs will go a long way to maintaining and rocking your shining pearly whites.