Dentists and Their Own Dental Care: How They Maintain Perfect Teeth

The expectation is that dentists, these oral health experts, should practice what they preach. However, personal experiences can sometimes contradict the advice given to the public. This article explores how dentists maintain their own teeth and the practices they recommend to their patients. Despite some personal stigmas, let's understand the importance of dental hygiene and the methods that dentists follow to ensure an excellent oral health routine.

Importance of Dental Hygiene for Dentists

Good dental hygiene is not only essential for the public but also for dentists who, as experts in oral health, should lead by example. Dentists recommend daily brushing and flossing to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Here are some common practices that dentists adopt to maintain their teeth:

Thoroughly rinsing the mouth after every meal: Using a proper technique and an appropriate toothbrush helps to remove food particles and plaque, preventing almost 95% of common dental problems. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing after every meal: This includes the use of fluoride toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash to keep the teeth and gums healthy. Protecting teeth during sleep: Dentists use night guards to prevent the wear of their teeth. Adhering to a bedtime routine: Maintaining oral hygiene before bed is crucial for preventing issues such as tooth decay and bad breath.

Common Practices Among Dentists

Dentists typically follow a strict regimen of oral hygiene to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Let’s delve into the practices they adhere to:

Sticky and sugary foods: Dentists avoid snacks that are sticky, gooey, and sugary, as these can adhere to teeth and increase the risk of tooth decay. No snacking between meals: They avoid snacking between meals to reduce the frequency of acid attacks on the teeth. Prioritizing dental checkups and cleanings: Regular visits to the dentist ensure that any issues are caught early and can be treated promptly. Use of auxiliary tools: Dentists often use tools like mouthwash, interdental brushes, and floss picks to maintain dental hygiene.

Challenging Personal Experiences

Unfortunately, not everyone has a positive experience with dentists. Some personal accounts can be strikingly different from the professional advice given. One such story involves a dentist who caused severe damage to their patient's mouth and teeth through unnecessary metal fillings. This raises questions about the integrity and ethics of dental practices:

"I had metal fillings drilled into every tooth in my mouth. There was no reason for this other than a vindictive jerk who wanted me to pay for using his parking lot."

This incident highlights the importance of selecting a trusted dentist and researching the procedures and recommendations before undergoing any dental work.

Finding Trustworthy Dentists

Despite some personal stigmas, dentists who follow best practices can be found. One such individual who has maintained nearly perfect dental health into their 70s has their own story to share:

"I brush every day, floss after every meal, don’t eat sugar candy or simple carbohydrates like juice, and I have never shied away from dental care."

Another dentist shared their experience of losing four teeth at age seven due to disease and poverty. Despite their personal story, they remained dedicated to maintaining their oral health:

"I am nearly 70 and have all but 4 of my own teeth. I lost four at seven years of age due to disease and ignorance and poverty. I wasn’t a dentist when I was seven though."

This illustrates that even with challenging circumstances, good oral hygiene practices can significantly impact dental health.

Conclusion

Dentists play a crucial role in ensuring public oral health. While personal stories may vary, adhering to a strict regimen of oral hygiene is the key to maintaining healthy teeth. Dentists can serve as role models, and their practices can guide the public towards better oral health.