Despite being the hardest substance in our bodies, the enamel on our teeth can quickly begin to deteriorate if we fail to practice proper dental care. Ideally, brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups should be as routine as eating and drinking. Unfortunately, too many Americans treat personal dental hygiene as if it were less important than showering or even clipping their toenails.
As a result, periodontal disease is the most pervasive disease among both adults and children in the United States. In light of the fact that the best dental care is available right here in the U.S., it might seem surprising that periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis, are so rampant. But the fact is if an individual does not brush and floss regularly and thoroughly, dental checkups, peroxide toothpastes, and cutting-edge tooth brush designs are virtually useless.
Let us be honest with ourselves, there have been occasions when each of us has failed to to brush as thoroughly as we should. Perhaps we were running late, exhausted from a long day, or had a few too many; whatever the reason, brushing for 20 to 30 seconds will never get the job done. Fortunately, most of the time we are mindful enough to brush and floss for the recommended two to three minutes. But this is not true for everyone, especially young children who have yet to develop the maturity and wisdom that allows most adults to understand the long-term consequences of their current actions, or lack thereof.
While adults are fortunate enough to have the best dental implants, veneers, dentures, and other cosmetic dental procedures at their disposal, parents do not want to be put in the position where they must find a cosmetic dentist for their children. Aside from routine checkups, embarking on a successful dental career is the closest parents ever want to see their children get to a dentist’s chair.
Unfortunately, it would be overly idealistic to think that tooth decay and gum disease will be eliminated any time soon. Thus, in the event that tooth decay were to occur, we can at least take comfort in the fact that a good dentist can offer us the very best dental implants, veneers, or dentures. Although nothing can beat keeping our natural teeth healthy, dental cosmetics gives us a second chance to reclaim a set of teeth that look and feel healthy.