Oral hygiene is important, not just for teeth and gums, but your overall health as well. If you visit the dentist on a regular basis, you’ve probably heard about cavities, gum disease, and enamel erosion. Richmond, KY, dentist Mark Stephens DMD treats patients with these issues every day and has some tips on how to avoid these common dental problems.

Follow these tips to avoid common dental problems:

• Daily Care: Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once is critical to preventing cavities and gum disease. These daily habits keep teeth and gums clean and prevent plaque from building up. Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush and brush for two minutes twice a day. Spend some extra time flossing in between each tooth to remove excess food particles and bacteria.
• Enamel Protection: Enamel is a translucent, thin outer covering that protects your teeth. It creates a type of shell around each tooth and is the hardest tissue in the body. Unfortunately, it is prone to crack and erode. Enamel doesn’t have any living cells, so it can’t regenerate. Certain conditions like acid reflux disease and food acids like phosphoric and citric acid can contribute to enamel erosion. Simple dietary changes can prevent this problem. Dentists suggest cutting back on sodas, fruit drinks, excess sugar, and starches.
• Dental Visits: It’s important to visit the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and dental exam. Your dentist will remove excess plaque and check for cavities, gum disease, and signs of enamel erosion. If you wear partial or full dentures or have dental crowns, the dentist will also check to ensure your dental work is clean, healthy, and fits properly.

Mark Stephens DMD and his staff offer a variety of services for patients in Richmond. Whether you need a cleaning, are curious about straightening your teeth with Invisalign, or need information on cosmetic dentistry procedures like veneers or dental crowns, Dr. Stephens can help. Call (859) 626-0069 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website for more information.