New Year, New You: Taking Care of Your Oral Health in 2019
If it’s been awhile since you’ve been to a dentist, it can be embarrassing to go back. But if you’re suffering from tooth pain, tooth sensitivities or other oral problems, it’s important to take care of it right away so it doesn’t get worse.
Here are some of the common dental concerns for adults:
Gum disease, also called gingivitis, can become serious if left untreated, but the good news is that gum disease is also reversible if caught and treated early. This is why regular dental check-ups are important, along with practicing good oral hygiene consistently at home. By brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing and eating a balanced diet, you can help ward off gum disease.
Missing or decayed teeth. The average adult is missing three or more teeth. Sometimes your teeth can shift and cause other problems because of a missing tooth. A large gap between your teeth can also affect how you chew or speak. There are other options. Discuss with your dentist the possibility of receiving a bridge, which anchors to your adjacent teeth; dentures, which is helpful if you’ve lost a large number of teeth; or a dental implant, which looks like a tooth.
Tooth sensitivities. Sensitive teeth can be treated by a dentist, but the key is finding out what is causing the sensitivity. You could have a fractured tooth, a cavity, worn out fillings, gum disease or an exposed tooth root. Your dentist could recommend a new toothpaste or another treatment, based on what is causing your sensitive teeth.
If you don’t have dental insurance, AmeriPlan dental plans can help you start the New Year with a renewed effort to take care of your oral health.
