Do you remember anything from your dental checkups? There really is a lot to learn, and here are some of the most important things you might not even remember hearing:
Dentist Visits Are Important
Regular checkups are a good way to prevent cavities and a host of other oral problems. (This usually comes up right before they ask about scheduling your next appointment…)
Dentists Screen For Oral Cancer
Did you think they just look for cavities? Oral cancer is a serious disease, with people dying from it every hour, so each dental checkup includes a screening for oral cancer.
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
If there’s one thing that stands out, it’s the basic advice of brushing twice a day.
(With a flouride toothpaste.)
Make Sure You Floss, Too
This usually comes up because your gums start to bleed at the mere sight of dental floss! They ask how often you floss, and they’ll know if you’re lying when you say “at least once a day, if not more!”
Eat Healthy To Keep Your Teeth In Good Shape
Eat a healthy diet. Sugary foods and soft drinks do a number on your teeth, so eating healthy is an easy way to avoid cavities.
Change Your Toothbrush
They will wear out, not to mention get covered in lots of germs. Try to get a new toothbrush every three months, and always change it after you have been sick. (If you keep using the same one, you are just putting your sick germs right back into your body!)
Oral Hygiene Is Much Less Painful Than Oral Surgery
You are better off taking the time to brush and floss than to be lazy and end up getting your teeth pulled later.