‘Prevention is better than cure’ goes the saying. One would always prefer to go by the saying or would atleast be adviced to go by the saying when it comes to ‘cure’ in dentistry.
Odontophobia is one of the most commonest problems faced in dentistry. There is alot of positive and feel good attitude that can be experienced by taking up a preventive measure to avoid diseases of the teeth or gum.
Amongst the various specialities in dentistry, Preventive dentistry is one of the most productive side of dentistry. Of course the productive side of delivering healthier teeth and gums.
Preventive Dentistry is that branch of dentistry that aims at providing the care that is needed to keep the gums and the teeth healthy. It helps in keeping the oral cavity healthy thereby preventing the occurance of bad breath, cavities, gum diseases or other oral diseases.
The first tooth develops at the age of 6 months. Prior to the development of milk tooth, care has to be taken to maintain the oral cavity especially of the gums in good health. Wet cotton swabs can be used to clean the baby’s gum pads after drinking milk. Care must also be taken to keep the lips and areas surrounding the mouth in a clean state.
Once the child develops milk tooth, care must be taken to maintain the health of the milk tooth. Rampant caries is very common in milk tooth. The child must have his brushing habits started with mildly fluoridated toothpaste.
Fluoridated toothpaste along with proper brushing techniques is required to help prevent cavity formation in the teeth.
In case of permanent tooth, fluoride application will be required which will help strengthen the enamel and provide a shield to prevent attack by bacteria.
Not only in preventing cavities but also in aligning the tooth to proper position in the oral cavity, preventive dentistry comes into play.
Also
Preventive dental measures to keep the teeth and gums healthy :
(1.) Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste
(2.) Replace the toothbrush once in every three months.
(3.) Rinse your mouth after having sweets and other sticky food.
(4.) Use other dental aids like dental floss, interdental brush, mouthwash etc.
(5.) Eat nutritious and a well balanced diet. Include a lot of Vitamin B and Citrus fruit in your diet..
Visit your dentist once in every six months.