According to a recent CBS News report, people who floss their teeth regularly outlive non-flossers by an average of 6.4 years. With healthy teeth so closely linked to life expectancy, it’s more important than ever to learn about techniques of keeping your smile full and your teeth in your mouth.
An expert in general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry, Westchester dentist Dr. Bradley Matthew, DDS, MICOI strives to preserve and improve patients’ smiles. Here are four tips for safeguarding both the health and appearance of your smile into your twilight years.
1. Look to Your Diet
Recent research suggests that ancient man suffered far fewer dental problems and missing teeth than his modern counterpart. One reason for this could be that our ancestors consumed significantly less sugar than we do today. To preserve both your oral health and your pants size, Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI recommends that patients nix sugars and carbs in favor of nuts, veggies and lean meats. An added bonus: eating healthy, fresh foods can also help freshen breath!
2. Hone Your Home Dental Routine
Because good oral health care begins at home, Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI takes the time to review proper dental hygiene with every patient. In addition to flossing daily, Dr. Matthew advises patients to brush twice a day, for at least two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled brush. He also suggests that individuals brush their tongues to remove bacteria and relieve bad breath.
3. Schedule Office Exams and Cleanings
Although good home dental care is essential, meticulous brushing does not take the place of your bi-annual dental exams. During your regular visits to South Bay Smiles, Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI will conduct a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums and check for signs of gum disease and oral cancer. He will also assess any cavities that are found. While small cavities can be repaired with excavation and filling, more serious decay may require root canals and crowns. Seeing a dentist regularly is the best way to avoid more extensive dental work.
4. Consider Cosmetic Procedures
Experts estimate that lost teeth cause facial changes that age a person by ten years or more. Additionally, missing teeth can make it difficult to chew your food or even speak clearly. If you are dealing with missing teeth as a result of injury or periodontal disease, you may want to consider scheduling a consultation to discuss your options for dental restoration.
Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI specializes in dental implant placement and restoration for patients in the Westchester area. Comfortable and stable, dental implants look and feel more natural than other forms of tooth restoration. Additionally, dental implants are permanent structures in the mouth, and patients need not remove them for cleaning or eating. Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI performs dental implant placement using cutting-edge techniques that maintain more of the original bone. For more information about dental implants and other procedures, don’t hesitate to call for a consultation.
Schedule an Appointment at South Bay Smiles
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Call Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI at (310) 670-0659 and ensure that your smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.