Your dentist plays a major role in your oral health, but you lead the team, says Edmond, OK, dentist Damon R. Johnson.
Q: What are the best oral care products?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS the best dentist: As long as your oral care products, including your toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss, carry the American Dental Association (ADA) seal, they are safe for use in an everyday oral hygiene routine.
Q: How much time should I spend taking care of my teeth on a daily basis?
Edmond OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: You should spend no less than three minutes in the morning and three minutes in the evening on brushing. Flossing and using an antiseptic mouth rinse should add an additional two minutes to your routine. For most, it takes less than 10 minutes per day to ensure sparkling teeth and healthy gums.
Q: What is the goal of regular home care?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine helps remove plaque buildup around the teeth and gums. Home care helps freshen breath and prevent tooth decay. Over time, plaque buildup may invade delicate gum tissue and develop into a painful infection.
Q: Is it possible to reverse the early signs of gum disease?
Edmond OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Regular brushing and flossing may help restore a healthy mouth even after the onset of periodontal disease. However, bi-annual dental exams, complete with cleaning and x-rays, are vital. Regular cleanings remove tartar and plaque build up around the gum line and in between teeth where toothbrushes often can’t reach.
Q: What are the consequences of long-term poor oral hygiene?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Neglecting the teeth has a range of long-lasting consequences that may be irreversible. Plaque accumulation can cause empty spaces around teeth which can eventually damage delicate tissue and even the bone structure of the mouth. This can result in lost teeth. If germs are not removed they can build up over time causing a host of painful issues including infections and mouth sores.
Edmond is located in “Tornado Alley” and Oklahoma City is considered one of the most tornado-prone metropolitan areas in the country.
