2020 is coming to a close. For many people, this is a sigh of relief kind of moment. For others, this year was an opportunity to pivot. A lot has happened this year, which means some things may have been sidelined – including dental health.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite tips from the blog this year! Did you catch all of these? But, more importantly, have you scheduled your end-of-year dental appointment to capitalize on any unused health insurance benefits? Check-in with us and your provider to make sure you know the deadlines.
From May 28, 2020 – What are Plaque and Tartar?
The more proper name for tartar is dental calculus. In essence, tartar is plaque that has hardened over time. If you don’t remove plaque daily, it can transform into tartar and become a more serious issue.
Unlike dental plaque, you cannot remove tartar with just brushing flossing, and mouthwash. Calculus means “pebble,” and tartar is a hard, strong substance. Only your professional dental team can get rid of tartar by using specialised dental instruments.
From June 30, 2020 – Drinking water is the simplest way to assist in children’s dental health.
Dehydration is just as harmful to your dental health as gallons of neon sugar water. In fact, not getting enough water can exacerbate existing dental problems (e.g. gum disease). Also, your body needs water to generate saliva and to keep your head-to-your-toes lubricated. That includes your gums and the inside of your mouth.
Drinking water can aid in reducing acids lingering in your mouth. Sugar, in combination with helpful mouth bacteria, can produce acidic reactions (i.e. cavities). Your body is designed to combat this issue, though! Saliva helps mitigate acidic effects, but good hydration augments saliva’s mission.
From July 15, 2020 – Insightful Questions to Ask Your Dentist
“How can I proactively prevent the issues I came to you for?”
It’s good practice to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. At the same time, patients don’t want the stress of urgent care or manifold appointments. Proactive efforts help both patient and doctor!
Your dentist is acutely aware of your oral health and can see issues you may not. Ask them how you can stay on track to avoid unnecessary future dental work.
From October 19, 2020 – What You Can Expect to See on a Dentist’s Website
2020 special: public health concern protocols
This year we can’t overestimate just how much of normal life has been changed. Everything from how waiting rooms function to how you interact with your dentist has been affected. Every prospective patient needs to be educated on a clinic’s public health procedures and responses to 2020’s health concerns. Look for dedicated pages or home page alerts that will explain your role in the process.
Do you have anything you’d like us to blog about next year? Or, would you like to schedule a final appointment of 2020? Let’s send this year the right way!