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Resolve to make dental health a priority in 2001
The Wisdom Tooth by Wynn H. Okuda, D.M.D.

Once again it’s time to assess how we want to improve our quality of life in the new year. Have you already made your list of resolutions? I highly recommend adding the resolution of making dental health a priority. Our teeth allow us to communicate to others confidence, acceptance and happiness, eat a variety of healthful foods, and enjoy delicious tastes and textures. With our busy schedules, it’s easy to neglect good dental health or take it for granted. Sometimes we can only truly appreciate something after we no longer have it. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. With daily or periodic preventive measures and receiving timely dental treatment, you are making large strides toward optimal dental health.

Remember, successful habit changes are achieved by being consistent and by taking small steps. I would like to encourage everyone to be aware of their strengths in dental care and dental health.... and also to take action on areas which you can improve. Don’t plan to change all in one day, but rather little by little, in ways you can maintain in your daily routine.

Brushing. Whenever you eat or drink anything, the food or drink turns into a form of sugar in your mouth. Bacteria feeds on this substance on your teeth, leading to decay. Thoroughly brushing your teeth removes the sugars and built-up plaque, minimizing the chance of the plaque irritating your gums or turning into hardened tartar. Please note that I used the words "thoroughly brushing" in that last sentence. This means using gentle circular motions with a soft bristled tooth brush. Or even better, use an electric toothbrush, like the one by Braun, which automatically does the circular motions for you. The majority of people do brush in the morning and at night, however brushing after lunch is challenging for many. Brushing after each meal is especially important for people who are more likely to get cavities or have faster tartar build-up.

Flossing. Whereas people brush fairly regularly, daily flossing is a much more difficult habit to achieve. In a way, you can think of floss accomplishing between the teeth what brushing accomplishes on the other surfaces. Unless you floss, your teeth are not completely clean. Flossing removes sugars, plaque and food substances where the brush can’t reach. This removal of plaque minimizes irritation of the gums and bleeding, the signs of the beginning of gum disease (gingivitis). Persistent gum irritation by plaque and tartar may cause permanent gum damage (periodontal disease). Flossing only takes a minute or two, but serves an essential purpose. Add flossing "painlessly" to your night routine by also watching tv at the same time.

Timely Dental Treatment. I know it seems easier try to avoid dental treatment, whether your tooth is sensitive or aching, or whether you have already been diagnosed as needing a filling or crown. Some people may think (or strongly hope) that waiting may make the dental problem go away. Unfortunately, waiting may only make the situation worse... and very likely more expensive. Tooth sensitivity could be a sign of trouble in that a cavity may be present and/or the enamel may be worn or fractured. If a cavity is left unfilled, decay may continue down the tooth, past the enamel layer, and affect the pulp or the nerve of the tooth. Often, if decay reaches the pulp, the effect is an irreversible infection, swelling, and severe pain. What began as a tooth needing a filling has now become a tooth possibly needing a root canal and crown, maybe more. Remember, it never pays to procrastinate on dental treatment that is needed.

Periodic Cleanings & Exams. Some patients are recommended by the dentist to see the hygienist for a professional cleaning every six months, while others with conditions such as gum disease see the hygienist more frequently. During these cleanings, tartar and surface stains are removed, teeth are polished, and information is given to patients on areas of concern that need more preventive attention. Just as that commercial says, "Only a dentist can remove tartar". This is an extremely important process, as I mentioned before, as tartar build-up leads to gingivitis, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Paired with a cleaning by a hygienist is an examination by the dentist. Teeth are evaluated visually as well as through radiographs (x-rays), for cavities or other conditions. The examination also includes an oral cancer check and an overall assessment. Periodic exams by a dentist are important in taking a preventive approach to your dental care.

Dental Insurance. Just as with many other types of insurance, most people aren’t fully aware of their dental insurance terms. Knowing what your dental insurance does cover, and when your annual coverage renews can be extremely helpful to you. If you have dental work that needs to be done, this knowledge can help you financially, for you’ll have a good estimate of what portion the insurance company may pay and what you’ll pay from your pocket. So round up that dental insurance brochure and be informed. Also, let your dental office know of any and all changes that may affect your insurance coverage.

Always remember that when you focus on prevention or early detection and treatment of dental related problems, you are fulfilling your responsibility of helping to care for your teeth. Having a New Year’s resolution for proactive dental care is a good way to start 2001. Dental professionals can then much more effectively assist you with conservative and optimal dental procedures, towards the goal of keeping as many of your natural teeth during your lifetime. Here’s hoping that 2001 is a year of smiles and improved quality of life for everyone!!