Dr. Magathan's Dental Top 10 List

1. Dental Checkups Include Oral Cancer Screenings.
   
   Dental checkups include screenings for oral cancer, a serious oral disease of the mouth, lips, or throat. Like most cancers, it is treatable if detected early.
   
   
2. Gum (Periodontal) Disease Affects Your Overall Health.
   
   One of the principal causes of tooth loss; gum disease has also been linked to other diseases, such as diabetes. If detected early, it can be treated quite effectively.
   
   
3. Dental Cleanings and Checkups are Extremely Important to your Well-being.
   
   Your dentist wants to prevent problems before they happen - regular checkups and cleanings will help to maintain your teeth and gums.
   
   
4. Brush and Floss Twice Daily.
   
   This helps to prevent cavities by removing the plaque which causes tooth decay. This daily practice is extremely important in preventing gum disease.
   
   
5. Bad Breath.
   
   This could be the result of a dental problem. In most situations, there is a direct link between bad breath and a dental condition. Mouthwash will only mask the problem, not treat it.
   
   
6. Proper Nutrition is Important for Good Dental Health.
   
   High sugar levels combined with the bacteria in your mouth and may cause tooth decay and gum disease.
   
   
7. Dental Problems Do Not Get Better or Go Away Without Treatment.
   
   If your dentist recommends a treatment plan for you, ignoring it will not solve the problem.
   
   
8. A Root Canal is Not as Painful.
   
   Root canal treatments are sometimes necessary to save a tooth. Given today's technology, these treatments are often comfortable and can be anxiety free.
   
   
9. You Should Change Your Toothbrush Every Three Months.
   
   Bacteria from your teeth transfers to your toothbrush - if you have gum disease, the rate of this transfer increases. You must change your tooth brush to limit this transfer of bacteria.
   
   
10. Maintaining Good Dental Health is Easy.
    
    Brushing twice daily, flossing daily, having regular dental checkups and cleanings, and a proper diet leads to healthy teeth and gums!
    
    

Your oral health is integral to your overall health and often offers advance warnings of other serious medical conditions. Make sure you visit us if you have any concerns about your oral health and remember the importance of your routinely scheduled checkups.