Did you know that only 1% of humans go through life never developing a cavity? You know what that means…you’ll probably develop cavities if you haven’t yet. You can ward off tooth decay by practicing diligent daily dental care at home, paired with six-month checkups and cleanings with Oak Park, IL, dentist Dr. Thomas Wegner at Town & Country Dentistry. In today’s blog, you’ll learn about brushing, flossing, diet, dental visits, and a child’s first dental visit in our office.
Family dentistry should be age appropriate, convenient, and most importantly, effective at preventing oral diseases, like cavities and gum disease. If you and your kids are aiming for cavity-free checkups, we invite you to call us today at (708) 383-0330 and schedule appointments for your whole family. For your convenience, we’re open until 6:30pm and offer Saturday appointments, as well.
Brushing Basics: Model Proper Technique
Kids copy their parents, for better or for worse! If you establish a consistent brushing and flossing routine for yourself and your kids, you’ll be making great strides toward fewer cavities and healthier gums.
This video by the ADA at mouthhealthy.org demonstrates proper brushing technique, and at your visit, our hygienist will demonstrate brushing and help you find the most effective method.
https://youtu.be/xm9c5HAUBpY?si=X94LxkNEk3TpGDkr
Flossing is a Family Affair
Just as your children emulate your brushing technique, they’ll also learn that flossing is important by watching you floss your teeth each night before brushing. At your visit, the hygienist can help tweak your flossing routine for maximum effectiveness.
Here’s another video from the ADA. This one demonstrates proper flossing technique.
https://youtu.be/HhdoPXNKNm4?si=kV-5W_Di8a2cylPw
Healthy Diet, Healthy Smile
You are what you eat? Your smile sure is! The bacteria in plaque, called S mutans, is the same one that causes cavities. This nasty little bacteria thrives on starches, including sugars, eating up the starches and emitting an acidic byproduct that erodes tooth enamel and harms sensitive gum tissue.
Limit sugary snacks and beverages, especially acidic foods like oranges and lemons. Replace energy drinks with healthy, sugar-free alternatives. And when you do eat sweets, breads, or acidic foods, rinse your mouth afterward. Chew sugar-free gum with xylitol (a sugar substitute) because xylitol helps fight tooth decay.
To reduce the potential of tooth enamel discoloration, in addition to brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once a day, use a straw to drink dark beverages, and limit dark foods like cherries, berries, tomato paste, and red wine.
Here’s what the ADA recommends in regards to a healthy diet to promote good oral health.
https://youtu.be/0Ja0-Tln7VY?si=bXc0NsG655g1QRKC
The Power of Family Dentistry in Oak Park, IL
Why choose a family dentist over a general dentist? All family dentists are general dentists, and every general dentist learns how to provide care to patients of all ages–kids to senior citizens. Only some, like Dr. Wegner, decide to go into family dentistry, treating all ages.
We welcome whole families and offer age-appropriate care, such as sealants to deter cavities in kids, and fluoride treatment for all ages. Our office makes visits convenient by stacking the appointments of you and your family members, so you can all come in at the same time. Additionally, older teens and adults appreciate our cosmetic services, like teeth whitening, Invisalign clear, removable braces, and porcelain veneers.
Your Child’s First Dental Appointment
From the time your children develop their first few teeth until you’re confident their oral health habits are firmly established, allow your children to brush and floss alongside you. This is the single most effective way to raise kids who prioritize good oral health.
We want to join you in your efforts by providing a fun, rewarding experience for your little ones from their first visit through adolescence and teen years, into adulthood. Great oral health supports great overall health!
We like to see babies by their first birthday, then once a year until they’re between 3 and 5 years old, unless you notice any abnormalities in their mouth. A child of 5 can sit still through a dental hygiene visit, so we recommend your kids start 6-month checkups and cleanings by age 5.
Schedule Today!
Ready to schedule your family’s appointments with Town & Country Dentistry of Oak Park, IL? Call us today at (708) 383-0330. We are accepting new patients and sincerely look forward to meeting you and treating you–like family!