With spring upon us and summer right around the corner, it’s time to break out of the winter doldrums and get into the swing of spring. People are getting their bikes primed for riding, renewing memberships to the local pool, planning summer vacations, and putting away heavy sweaters and winter coats. Let’s look at how we can prepare our teeth and gums for spring!
Here, let’s focus on the following:
- Keeping dental appointments
- Oral cancer screenings
- At-home care
- Importance of brushing and flossing properly
- Finding the right dentist for you
Spring motivates us to get outside and do things for our heart health and waistline, but what are we doing for our teeth and gums? Have you been putting off that dental exam and teeth cleaning? Was your January resolution to get to the dentist, but you never quite made it? Well, there’s no time like the present to treat your mouth, teeth, and gums with the excellent care they deserve. You don’t forget to schedule an oil change for your beloved car, so why haven’t you made that dental appointment?
All the Cool Kids Go to the Dentist
Any great general dentist in Burkburnett, Texas, will tell you the key to great oral health is preventative care and regular dental exams and cleanings. Twice-yearly visits to your dentist and at-home consistent oral hygiene may prevent cavities, gingivitis, and more serious issues like tooth decay, tooth loss, and periodontal disease.
Oral cancer screening is an integral part of oral care, in addition to seeing your Burkburnett general dentist at least twice a year. Regardless of a family history of oral cancer, your dentist will examine your mouth, neck, and face to determine if anything looks abnormal.
Advanced dental technology at your Burkburnett general dentist’s office will be used to get a clear picture of any cell changes that may indicate pre-cancer or cancer. No one wants to hear the C-word, so seeing your dentist can put your mind at ease regarding cancers of the mouth, neck, and throat.
Here are some ways you can lower your risk of developing oral cancer:
- Don’t smoke
- Don’t chew tobacco or rub snuff
- Drink alcohol in moderation
- Use a lip balm with sunscreen
- Avoid vaping, as there are still too many unknowns regarding the chemicals in vaping liquid
Brush and Floss Properly
It is really important that you brush and floss properly, according to your dentist’s recommendations. Your Burkburnett, Texas, general dentist will advise the following:
- Gently brush your teeth on all sides with a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Every three to four months, replace your toothbrush.
- Use small circular motions as you brush.
- Brush gently along your gum line.
- Brush your tongue, also.
- Clean between your teeth with dental floss recommended by your dentist. Then rinse after you floss.
If your gums bleed when you floss, let your dentist know. You may be flossing too hard, or you may have the beginnings of gum disease (gingivitis).
Finding the Dentist Right for You
Whether you need a Burkburnett general dentist for you or for your entire family, it’s important to do your homework before scheduling. Read reviews, read the dentist’s blog (like you’re doing right now), ensure the office hours fit your schedule, learn about emergency dental care, and ensure the environment is warm, inviting, and friendly.
You want to find a dentist who can care for you for many years, and you have every right to ask questions and get a feel for the office environment. Trust your gut; you’ll learn a lot from your first visit.
Learn More about Your Burkburnett, Texas, General Dentist
Dr. Kyle Clark and the amazing team at Burkburnett Family Dental (940) 569-4901 stand ready to answer any questions you may have regarding dental care for you and your family. You may fill out our online contact form, and someone will reach out shortly.
Dr. Clark can meet all your needs, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, and periodontal therapy. If you have dental anxiety or phobia, sedation dentistry works wonders to ease your fears and allow you to have the dental work you may have been putting off for years.
