Working to ensure the best oral hygiene is a goal many of us strive for. Having a smile that you can be happy with and not worrying about losing essential functions like talking and eating is a goal we should all work for. You can achieve these goals with general dentistry, which plays a significant role in oral health. With the help of Dr. Ian McGinnis at Oxford Family Dentistry, you can ensure the health of your smile with general dentistry in Oxford, Mississippi.
What is General Dentistry?
General dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on maintaining and preserving the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. It includes routine check-ups, cleanings, x-rays, and other preventive treatments that catch dental issues before they become more severe. General dentists are highly skilled professionals who can diagnose, treat, and manage the oral health of patients of all ages.
General Dentistry Treatments
Regular check-ups and cleanings help maintain healthy teeth and gums. It involves routine exams, deep dental cleanings, and oral cancer screenings.
Restorative Care
Treatments that help repair or replace damaged or missing teeth. Restorative treatments include fillings, crowns, and implants.
Cosmetic dentistry offers procedures that enhance the appearance of your teeth. Smile-enhancing procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, and braces.
Experiencing a dental emergency can be stressful, so we offer treatments to help dental emergencies such as knocked-out teeth, severe pain, or bleeding gums.
Benefits of General Dentistry
You can take steps towards maintaining optimal oral health through regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Prevention: Regular check-ups can help detect and prevent oral health issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.
- Health Monitoring: General dentists can detect and monitor several general health issues, including diabetes and heart disease
- Cost-Efficient: Preventive treatments like routine check-ups can help protect against more expensive procedures in the future.
- Improved Oral Function: General dentistry treatments can enhance the functionality and appearance of your teeth, improving your oral function and overall quality of life.
Oral Hygiene Tips and Tricks
General dentistry is an excellent way to maintain and ensure the health of your teeth and gums. With these tips and tricks to care for your smile, you can be ahead of the game to ensure your smile is healthy and strong for years.
- Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily: Brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes each time. Use fluoride toothpaste, which helps strengthen your teeth and fight cavities.
- Floss Daily: Flossing is essential as it helps to remove food particles and plaque between teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. Flossing helps prevent cavities, periodontitis, and other dental problems.
- Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Foods high in sugar and acidity cause damage to your teeth by wearing away enamel and promoting the growth of harmful bacteria, causing cavities to occur more commonly. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks like candy, soda, and fruit juices. Instead, snack on apples, carrots, and celery, which helps promote healthy teeth and gums.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall and oral health. It helps to wash away bacteria, neutralize acidic foods and drinks, and prevent dry mouth. Dry mouth can cause bad breath and increase your risk of cavities because your saliva helps to prevent food decay. Drinking water after meals is also a helpful tip to help rinse out food particles and prevent them from sticking around.
- Visit Dr. McGinnis Regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for a healthy mouth. We encourage patients to see us every six months. From dental cleanings to oral exams, we can help ensure the health of your teeth and gums and remove any stubborn plaque and tartar that has built up over the six months since your last cleaning.
General Dentistry in Oxford, MS
General dentistry is an essentia l aspect of maintaining good oral and overall health. Dr. Ian McGinnis can offer preventive and corrective treatments that keep your teeth in excellent condition and help prevent health issues. Take care of your oral health today with our general dentist, Dr. McGinnis! Schedule an appointment today and experience the benefits and care of general dentistry at our office.