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Start the New Year with New Dental Habits | Yorba Linda Dentist

We all try to improve our quality of life in the new year, and this upcoming new year is no different. But when you think about improving your health, do you ever think about your dental health? I won’t assume but it is likely that the answer is no. I will encourage you to think twice about that as you write your resolutions for 2020. Because in a way, your oral health dictates the rest of your body.

We know a proper dental routine includes brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash, but a couple of these steps may be done in error, or completely missed altogether. If you are forgetting to do any of these steps, it’s time to rethink your habits. Don’t get overwhelmed, here’s a quick rundown. Promise it isn’t as scary as you think…

When it comes to dental health, the best thing you can do is stay on top of your oral hygiene. Make sure you do three things: brush for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, rinse and floss twice daily, change your toothbrush every few months or after being sick, and see your dentist regularly.

You may not think it’s important but rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash is your leading line of defense when gum disease presents itself in your mouth. Not only does it help cure gingivitis, but also prevents bleeding gums and inflammation by eliminating the bacteria in your mouth causing the irritation. The brand or flavor is up to you, just make sure it’s accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA).

Taking care of your teeth doesn’t take work, just a conscious effort. And now we have a whole new year to get it right…

For more information about dental hygiene, call Dr. Andrey Eng in Yorba Linda, CA at 714-779-2736 or visit www.andreyengdds.com.

Dr. Eng proudly serve patients from Yorba Linda and all surrounding areas.

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How to Protect Yourself from Oral Cancer | Yorba Linda Dentist

It is an estimated 53,000 new cases of oral cancer will be diagnosed this year alone. It’s a frightening thought, but if it is caught early enough, it is likely to be treatable. But what exactly is causing cancer to develop in the mouth?

First, realize keeping a healthy lifestyle is best, but there are also risk factors to keep in mind. Excessive use of tobacco products is already bad for you, but if you have this particular habit, you have a high risk of developing some form of oral cancer in some area of your mouth. This is why it is important to pay close attention to any sores or patches in your mouth. Alcohol use and poor diet also play into oral cancer signs. Physical trauma and exposure to infectious disease are also ways you may develop symptoms.

The best way to stay on top of your oral health is to give yourself a quick exam every month. With a bright light and a mirror, follow these guidelines:

  • If you wear dentures, remove them.
  • Look and feel the insides of your lips and front of your gums
  • Tilt your head and check out the roof of your mouth
  • Tug your cheek so you can analyze the surfaces and back of your mouth
  • Inspect all areas of your tongue
  • Your lymph nodes to make sure they aren’t getting enlarged and there are no lumps

You are trying to find any type of persistent sores or growths that may cause you to have issues eating, speaking. If you feel you may have symptoms of oral cancer, make an oral cancer screening appointment with your dental professional.

For more information about oral cancer, call Dr. Andrey Eng in Yorba Linda, CA at 714-779-2736 or visit www.andreyengdds.com.

Dr. Eng proudly serve patients from Yorba Linda and all surrounding areas.