According to Australia’s Oral Health Tracker, developed by The Australian Dental Association (ADA) and the Australia Health Policy Collaboration (AHPC), 90% of Australian adults have some form of tooth decay. Considering oral health is integral to our overall health, and teeth are the only part of our body that can’t repair themselves, this is a frightening statistic.
That said, the start of a new year is a great time to revolutionise your dental health journey. At Pennant Hills Dental Centre, we believe that embracing a holistic approach to oral health is key, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. In this article, we cover what holistic dental care entails, including the importance of regular dental check-ups and an effective at-home dental routine, plus the role of your diet in oral health.
Prioritising routine dental check-ups
We get it. The dentist’s chair isn’t exactly anyone’s favourite hangout spot. However, having a brief sit in it every 6 months can save you a lot of oral health issues down the track. Key to taking a holistic approach to your dental health in 2024 and beyond is prioritising regular dental check-ups. Here’s why:
Early detection
These dental visits are far more than just a routine inspection. They’re an essential part of preventative dentistry that can help you avoid complex dental issues. For instance, picking up on issues such as decay, gum disease and even oral cancer in their early stages can mean the difference between requiring simple dental treatments and invasive and costly procedures.
Tailored advice
At Pennant Hills Dental Centre, we do more than simply look for problems during your check-up. We provide you with valuable advice tailored to your specific dental needs. This may include teaching you ways to improve your teeth brushing technique, giving you tips for choosing the right dental care products or addressing any dental worries you may have, like tooth sensitivity or grinding. This advice is important for helping you maintain optimal oral health and general health between visits.
Deep cleans
During your dental check-up, your dental hygienist will give your teeth a deep clean. This plays an essential role in keeping plaque and tartar at bay, the primary culprits behind tooth decay and gum disease! These professional cleans get into all the nooks and crannies that brushing and flossing can’t.
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Creating an effective at-home dental routine
We all want that Hollywood smile, but unfortunately, it doesn’t just magically appear after your dental visits. The real magic happens at home, in your daily oral health routine. Below, we discuss the fundamentals of an excellent at-home dental care regimen.
Brushing basics
More than just a ritual, brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is a scientific strategy and your first line of defence against dental issues. Fluoride is a natural mineral that has been proven to reduce the risk of cavities in both adults and children by about 20-40% when used regularly.
By brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, you can reduce the amount of plaque that lingers in your mouth. Keep in mind when brushing that harder isn’t better. Gentle circular motions are kinder on your gums and more effective than vigorous brushing at cleaning the surfaces of your teeth and your gum line.
Flossing fundamentals
Flossing may seem like an unnecessary chore, but it’s a non-negotiable part of taking care of your teeth and gums. While brushing your teeth cleans the surface areas, flossing removes bits of food and plaque from between your teeth and under your gum line, areas that your toothbrush struggles to reach.
A good way to look at it is, if you only brush your teeth and neglect the flossing bit, you’re technically only doing 60% of the job. Without flossing, you put yourself at a far higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease. With a bit of practice, flossing can cost you less than 2 minutes of your day. A worthwhile trade!
Nourishing your oral health through your diet
What you eat and drink can play a significant role in your oral health, affecting everything from the strength of your teeth to the condition of your gums. Consuming a wholesome, balanced diet comprising lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables and fruits can enhance the health of your mouth.
Apart from their nutritional content, crunchy fruits and vegetables, for instance, can act as natural toothbrushes, removing plaque and stimulating saliva production (essential for neutralising harmful acids). Dairy products that are loaded with calcium and phosphates can play an essential role in maintaining healthy tooth enamel.
On the other hand, diets that are high in sugars and acidic foods can cause dental problems. Consider snacks and drinks that have a high sugar content. They provide a feast for you, but also for the bacteria found in plaque, resulting in the mass production of acids that attack your tooth enamel. This contributes directly to the formation of cavities.
It goes without saying that limiting your sugar intake doesn’t only come with general health benefits, but also does your oral health a favour.
Holistic dentistry in Pennant Hills
It’s clear to see the significance of routine dental visits, a comprehensive at-home oral care regimen, and a good diet for your dental well-being. These are all essential factors when it comes to maintaining not just your oral health, but your overall health, too.
At Pennant Hills Dental Centre, our team of holistic dentists is dedicated to supporting you to revolutionise your dental health. We make sure each aspect of your oral care also has a positive impact on your general wellness.It’s important to remember that looking after your teeth and gums is a serious investment in your general well-being. There’s little point in putting off what you can address today for a healthier tomorrow. So, get in touch with us to make an appointment without delay. Let’s get you on track to your best oral health yet!
