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What are the best ways to practice good oral hygiene at home?

It's vital that all adults engage in daily brushing and flossing, but to take your oral hygiene to the next level, follow a handful of particular steps to good dental health. These include:

• Using products that contain fluoride.

• Limiting snacks that are high in sugar.

• Eating a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables.

• Avoiding tobacco in any form.

At what age should my child first see a dentist?

Studies show children can develop their first cavities by two years old, so the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends booking the first visit once their first tooth erupts – or, at the latest, their first birthday. This helps your dentist catch potential problems that can affect the child's overall health and well-being as more teeth erupt over time.

When do a child’s baby teeth typically fall out?

Most children begin losing their baby teeth between the ages of six and eight, and they typically fall out in roughly the same order in which they erupted. Keep in mind that all patients are different. Children's and adult's oral condition depends on how long they've gone without an appointment, how long your kids' baby teeth last and even some things to which you are naturally more sensitive. With these questions queued up, you'll never be in doubt as to the state of your mouth's health.

Should I use mouthwash regularly?

Cosmetic mouthwashes are aimed at freshening breath and maintaining a healthy colour, but they contain fluoride to help fight cavities as well. Therapeutic rinses can also treat conditions such as gingivitis, tooth sensitivity and inflammation caused by chemotherapy. For more advanced conditions, prescription mouthwashes often contain chlorhexidine gluconate to kill bacteria that cause bleeding, inflammation and the formation of plaque.

How often is it advised to go for dental checkups?

Dental health varies from person to person, but the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends adult patients visit a dentist once or twice a year even if their mouth is in excellent condition. This enables you to get your teeth cleaned professionally on a regular basis and ensure that any potential problems are identified early.

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