There's very little that lasts a lifetime (unless you're the recipient of some endless contest winnings). This is especially distressing when it comes to our appearances, and our bodies in general. We draw so much personal value from the way we look and feel, and a healthy self means comfortable daily life. Don't you wish that your teeth could go the distance? A healthy, beautiful smile boosts confidence, function, daily activities, and the way others view you. Shouldn't you be able to keep that smile for years to come?
While tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it's not completely invincible. As time passes, your teeth start to suffer the effects of aging and gradual wear. But they don't have decay, or erode, or someday fall out. If you take certain preventive steps on a regular basis, you can give your smile the kind of longevity that seems impossible.
Sure, the rate of tooth loss among American adults remains high. But with the constant improvements in dental products, education, technology, and techniques, we have the power to change that - in the office and at home.
Daily choices add up! Embrace some of the habits below to end up seeing a smile that won't quit.
Ongoing Tooth Protection
Your teeth need a little extra help sometimes. When there's a chance that they could be put in harm's way, it's best to support them with a mouth guard. Occlusal guards are important during impact activities like sports and should be worn at night if you have a problem with bruxism, or teeth grinding.
Grinding may not sound that serious, but it's a leading cause of worn teeth and dental problems. When you become anxious or stressed, your jaw muscles contract on their own. This leads to your teeth grinding against one another, wearing the enamel down and causing sensitivity. Ongoing grinding can also lead to problems with the TMJ, or jaw joint.
The simplest solution is getting a mouth guard from your Northgate dentist. A custom-made guard fits your unique teeth, and protects against harmful jaw movements and enamel erosion. Beware of store-bought guards: since they don't fit as well, they can actually aggravate your grinding and tire the jaw.
An Enamel-Fortifying Diet
Some foods and drinks are friendlier to your teeth than others. Limiting harmful choices and embracing healthy ones will see your teeth looking brighter, and feeling better. You can also help prevent the rise of cavities with tooth-healthy meals.
Check out our blog post on a dentist-approved diet to get more details. Remember to be conscious of foods and drinks high in sugar, and those that are particularly acidic. Some fruits and fruit juices may seem healthy, but can actually lead to problems with decay. As always, enjoy treats in moderation!
Regular Dental Exams with our Northgate Seattle Dentist
You can't fight the entire battle against dental problems all on your own. Dr. Kim Okamura and our office staff are here to be your allies. But you have to give us a chance to engage with your oral health - and that means scheduling regular exams (for most patients, this means visiting the office every six months).
A professional can spot signs of cavities, gingivitis, or other concerns long before the untrained eye is able to. And early detection means simpler treatment, limited damage, and a more comfortable patient experience. Overall, we work to do everything possible to make dental care available to you and pleasant for you to experience.
Is it time for your next appointment? Contact us online, or give us a call at (206) 362-3200!
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