Dr. Brad Greenfield, your Lake Orion, MI dentist, is glad that his practice makes such a concerted effort to impart oral hygiene wisdom on patients. The risks of dental health issues diminish greatly when you take preventive measures. There are a great many tools of the oral hygiene trade on the market, and the where, when, what, and how can get to be a little overwhelming sometimes. Just as toothpaste freshens your breath, you should continue to freshen up your mind with all of the latest knowledge on oral hygiene practices.
Oral Hygiene at Home
If you’re wondering how often you should brush your teeth, Dr. Greenfield agrees with the American Dental Association that you should spend two minute sessions with your toothbrush at least twice a day. Make sure one of those times includes flossing to ensure the removal of harmful bacteria and food debris caught in between your teeth. Once plaque mineralizes and turns into tartar, you won’t be able to remove it safely on your own. Your dental hygienist will use a special tool to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth and under your gumline. If you end up with severe gum disease from poor oral hygiene, a separation of connective tissue between your gums and teeth can occur. This is called periodontal pockets and leads to abscesses and tooth loss.
Dental Checkups
Be sure to keep up with dental checkups every six months. This gives Dr. Greenfield the opportunity for a thorough examination that will rule out infection or other developing dental issues. Gum disease has been linked to serious systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and strokes. Preventing the inflammation of your oral tissues is easier than stopping gum disease once it starts. In fact, there is no current cure for gum disease. The best we can do is treat the infection so that it doesn’t progress and cause permanent tooth loss.
Visit your Lake Orion, MI Dentist
To learn more, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Greenfield, call Lake Orion Family Dentistry in Lake Orion, Michigan, at (248) 693-6213. We welcome patients from Lake Orion, Oxford, Rochester Hills, Clarkston, and the surrounding communities.
