October is National Hygiene Month! Our goal at Barataria Dental is to promote good oral care practices and provide the best quality of care for our patients. Your dental concerns are our dental concerns. We offer general, cosmetic and restorative dental services.
Dr. Maria Burmaster and her team of highly trained associates and professional staff will accommodate your dental needs and address your concerns by providing treatment options designed specifically for you.
Prevention is the Key
You can prevent issues that may affect your overall health by developing a daily oral care routine. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a number of medical issues such as:
- gum disease
- infections
- bone loss
- heart disease
- stroke
- oral cancer.
In addition to practicing good oral hygiene, you should see a dentist every six months. Routine check-ups play an important role in maintaining good oral health.
What to Expect at a Routine Check-up
Before the first appointment, Dr. Burmaster will need your complete medical history. She will also need to know of any prescribed medications you are taking. Being aware of any health concerns aid in diagnosing any oral issues and will help Dr. Burmaster provide you with the best care possible.
Teeth Cleaning
You will receive a thorough tooth cleaning. This is usually done by the dental hygienist and involves:
- Scraping off built-up plaque and tartar above and below the gum line.
- Flossing between and around every tooth to remove any plaque or food articles.
- Teeth polishing to get rid of any additional residue that may have been missed.
Examination
Next, Dr. Burmaster or an associate will examine your teeth to see if there are any problem areas in your mouth such as swelling of gums, mouth sores, and redness. Your mouth’s periodontal pockets will be measured to make sure there are no signs of gum disease.
Dental X-Rays
X-Rays will be taken to determine if there are any issues below the mouth’s surface. X-rays show what the natural eye cannot see. Dr. Burmaster will be able to see the roots below the gum line and your jawbone. Once the exam is completed, you will be advised of any issues and the next steps to take to improve or maintain good dental hygiene and oral health.
Tips for Practicing Good Dental Hygiene:
- Brush and floss your teeth twice a day.
- Use toothpaste with fluoride.
- Limit alcohol use.
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Monitor your diet and sugar intake.
- Get routine check-ups every month.
