Questions About Dental Care: Insights from The Tooth Doctor
Hi, and welcome back to The Tooth Doctor YouTube Channel. We’re here with Dr. Peter Yoo, the Tooth Doctor, and he’s going to break down and give us some answers to common questions about dental care, especially focusing on preventive dentistry in Edmonton. The Tooth Doctor has two locations in Edmonton – one in the Ellerslie neighborhood, one in the Capilano neighborhood and one location in Tofield, Alberta.
The Importance of Regular Dental Care
There’s a quote that goes, “The toothbrush doesn’t remove six months of tartar 30 minutes before your dental appointment.” It’s a funny but true statement—last-minute brushing won’t make up for neglect.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that 92% of adults aged 20 to 64 have dental caries in their permanent teeth. Everyone knows what they should be doing to take care of their teeth, yet so many people just don’t do it.
Dr. Yoo emphasizes, “We get into habits and routines, and we try to encourage building new, good habits. It’s about discipline until it becomes natural.”
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist in Edmonton, Alberta?
Should people visit the dentist every six months for preventive dentistry in Edmonton? Dr. Yoo explains, “For the average person, yes, a visit every six months is advisable for a checkup and dental hygiene maintenance. However, some people may need to come in more frequently due to health issues like gum disease or bone disease. Others who take excellent care of their teeth might only need to come in once a year, but it’s important not to let it go beyond that.”
Are X-Rays Necessary Every Ellerslie Dental Visit?
Are X-rays necessary every six months or even every year? Dr. Yoo says, “Our radiology guidelines suggest X-rays every 18 months if no cavities are detected. But if a patient has multiple cavities, X-rays might be necessary every six months to monitor progress. Insurance usually covers X-rays once a year, which is a routine we follow for most patients.”
Why Do Some People Get More Cavities Than Others?
Some people seem to get more cavities despite good oral hygiene. Dr. Yoo explains, “This is often due to the concentration of cavity-causing bacteria, diet, saliva production, and the amount of calcium in the body. Some people are just more prone to tooth decay and gum disease than others.”
How Often Should You Brush and Floss? Preventative Dentistry in Edmonton
“Brushing twice a day is essential for preventing the growth of bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities,” says Dr. Yoo. “Patients who brush once a day tend to have more cavities. As for flossing, while it’s ideal to floss daily, starting with flossing once a week is a good step for those who find it difficult to make it a habit.”
Is Mouthwash Helpful? Edmonton Dentist Weighs in
Mouthwash can be a useful tool, especially when you can’t brush your teeth. Dr. Yoo shares a tip from one of his patients: “An 80-year-old patient with all her teeth said she brushes in the morning with toothpaste and in the evening with mouthwash. She swishes the mouthwash and then brushes her teeth with it. This method helps strengthen gums and combat bad breath.”
Is Sugar-Free Gum Beneficial for Preventive Dentistry in Edmonton?
Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and helps clean the mouth. Dr. Yoo advises, “Chewing gum between meals is fine, but be cautious not to overdo it, as it can cause jaw soreness.”
Oral Hygiene Tips for Long Trips
For those on long trips without access to a sink, Dr. Yoo suggests, “You don’t always need toothpaste. Just using a toothbrush with water can help remove plaque and bacteria. It’s a great way to keep your teeth clean when you’re on the go.”
Building Good Oral Hygiene Habits in Edmonton
Dr. Yoo emphasizes starting small to build lasting habits. “If you’re not used to flossing, start with once a week. Choose a specific day, like Monday, and stick to it. Gradually, you can increase the frequency. It’s about making it manageable and sustainable.”
Final Thoughts from Edmonton Dentist
Thanks for joining us on The Tooth Doctor YouTube Channel. Don’t forget to subscribe, like the video if you found the information helpful, and leave a comment with any questions. Visit our website at www.thetoothdoctor.ca to schedule a visit at any of our three locations. Dr. Yoo has provided great tips on preventive dentistry in Edmonton to help you build better habits and take care of your oral health. See you next time!