|
In the past people lost their teeth and began wearing dentures early in life, so they had little need for ongoing
preventive dental care. However, recent studies show that today's generations have the healtiest teeth ever and that
tooth loss is actually declining. In fact, people between 55 and 64 have an average of 3.8 more teeth than their ancestors!
Trends also indicate that today's generations will continue to maintain their teeth well into their retirement years.
As a result, regular dental checkups and ongoing treatment will continue to be a vital contributor to everyone's long-term
dental health.
Keeping your teeth longer means it will be increasing important to catch problems such as receding gums, root cavities, and gum
disease early -- before they cause serious problems. Regular office checkups and brushing and flossing at home will combine to help all of us maintain
a lifetime of happy smiles.
It's never too late to improve your dental health. These five easy steps will protect the teeth and gums of
our patients, young and old alike
|
1. Use fluoridated dental products and drink fluoridated water. Fluoride simply prevents cavities.
2. Consider dental sealants. They stop tooth problems before they start by sealing out tooth decay.
3. Check frequently for signs of gum disease. Examine yourself for tenderness, bleeding from the gums, or
red, raw, and inflamed gums.
4. Brush and floss effectively. Try to do them after every meal!
5. Get frequent dental examinations. That's how you can detect problems early, when they can be treated easily
and most effectively.
|
Make a resolution to practice these five steps starting today!
|
|
Sealant Facts
|
|
Q: What are sealants for?
A: Sealants protect your teeth from exposure to bacteria which cause tooth decay.
Q: How do you apply sealants?
A: We "paint" it onto teeth. Made of durable plastics, sealants fill in pits
and fissures where toothbrushes can't reach, protecting enamel from backteria, acid and cavities. Sealants
don't work at the gumline or between teeth.
|
Q: What about tooth decay?
A: Sealants work only if your teeth are healthy and free from decay.
Q: How long do sealants last?
A: With proper care, they can protect teeth for a long time.
Q: Who should use sealants?
A: Patients between 7 and 17 will benefit most, but they are also sensible
for people of any age who want extra protection.
|
|
This webpage created by