According to the World Health Organization, close to 100% of adults have dental cavities and 15-20% suffer from severe periodontal (gum) disease. It may almost sound like dental health issues are inevitable, but fear not- there are steps you can take to significantly reduce or completely prevent yourself from facing painful and expensive dental issues.
Take a look in your bathroom medicine cabinet. You might see two different kinds of toothpaste, three bottles of mouthwash and four different choices when it comes time to floss. You’ve heard that electric flossers might be beneficial, so you’ve got one of those, too.
On the other hand, you may have an old toothbrush next to a box of half-empty baking soda. You may not own a single dental product aside from that toothbrush you purchased six months ago. If that’s the case, you’ve got to change your ways quickly in order to save more than just your smile. Having a healthy mouth helps prevent more serious diseases.
No matter which category you fall into, choosing the right dental products is important, but it can be a tricky task. Exploring the dental care section of your pharmacy might be overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. And depending on your specific situation, some products are more necessary or more effective than others.
So, how can you determine which products are most appropriate for you?
Here are 5 tips to simplify your dental care regimen and make your next trip to the pharmacy a little less stressful.
#1: Visit your dentist regularly. A professional will be able to take preventative measures when they see a dental health issue arising. Additionally, you can take the opportunity during a dental appointment to get recommendations about products you should be using. If you’re aware that tartar buildup is an issue for you, the decision to purchase a tartar control toothpaste instead of a product for whitening will be simple.
#2: Look for the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance. Since 1930, the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance program has tested the scientific claims of consumer dental products, evaluating their safety and effectiveness along the way. Always look for products that display the seal.
#3: Replace your toothbrush. You should switch to a new toothbrush every three months, or sooner if you notice the bristles getting bent or curled.
#4: Floss, floss and floss again. Dental experts have declared that many dental health problems could be avoided if people took the time to floss more often. Flossing does much more than get a stubborn piece of food out of your teeth- it prevents tartar buildup and disease, protects your gums and saves you money on expensive dental procedures in the long run.
#5: Use mouthwash. A good mouthwash does more than freshen your breath. According to the American Dental Association, it helps prevent gum disease by reducing bacteria in tartar. Choosing a mouthwash with fluoride is highly recommended.
Next time you’re in the dental care section at [company_short], we hope you’ll keep these tips in mind. But don’t worry, if you have any questions, we’re always here to help. Give us a call at [phone_main] or stop by the store for assistance with choosing the best dental products for you.