Dental Health

There is a strong relationship between your oral health and your overall health. Here are some good practices to follow to ensure proper oral hygiene.

Practicing and maintaining good oral health means taking care of all the parts of your mouth, including your teeth and gums. There is a strong relationship between your oral health and your overall health. Here are some good practices to follow to ensure proper oral hygiene:

• Floss everyday
• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Visit your dentist at least once a year
• Examine your mouth everyday
• Avoid smoking
• Don’t eat too many sweets

Recommended preventive dental care frequency (from the NYC Department of Health & Mental Health):

• Children: A child’s first dental exam should occur around the time of the child’s first tooth and no later than 12 months (1 year) of age. Then the child needs a dental checkup every 6 months or as determined by the child’s dentist. For children under 7 years of age, ask the dentist or primary care doctor about fluoride varnish.
• Pregnant women: Pregnant women should see a dentist at least one time during pregnancy. Necessary treatment can be provided throughout pregnancy.
• Adults: Adults should establish a dental home and see the dentist as often as the dentist recommends.
• Examine your mouth everyday
• Avoid smoking
• Don’t eat too many sweets

If you or your child has any of these early warning signs of tooth decay, contact your dentist.

• Small white spots on teeth
• Swelling of the face
• Tiny holes in enamel
• Pain in mouth
• Tooth sensitivity to heat, cold or sweets
• Tooth pain or sensitivity when chewing

Child Health Plus cover routine, preventive and emergency dental services through DentaQuest. You do not need a referral from your PCP to see a dentist. To choose a Primary Care Dentist (PCD) or if you need help finding a dentist in your area, call DentaQuest at 844-284-8819.

Medicaid members can access dental care using their MetroPlusHealth ID card. Your benefits include dental check-ups, cleaning, x-rays, fillings and follow-up care. You do not need a referral from your PCP to see a dentist. To choose a Primary Care Dentist (PCD) or if you need help finding a dentist in your area, call DentaQuest at 844-284-8819.

Why is it important to take care of my teeth?

Good dental care can prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath and even tooth loss. The health of your teeth and gums affects your entire body’s health. Did you know that gum disease may increase your risk of heart disease?

WHAT IS PLAQUE?

Plaque is a mixture of bacteria, protein and food. It forms in your mouth and gets stuck in your teeth. It is important to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Tartar can cause serious damage to your teeth and gums.

Tips for Healthy Teeth

Brushing and flossing are important, but they are not all you can do. Lifestyle choices can also help keep your teeth strong and your smile bright.

1. DO NOT SMOKE. If you do smoke, quit. Cigarettes and other tobacco products stain your teeth. They also increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
2. TAKE IN CALCIUM. Not getting enough calcium can increase your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Foods that are rich in calcium include cheese, milk, broccoli, okra and tofu.
3. AVOID SUGARY FOODS. That includes sodas, fruit drinks and sticky candies. If you do eat sugary foods, brush your teeth after.
4. USE FLUORIDE, BUT NOT TOO MUCH. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and prevents decay. Most tap water in New York is fluoridated. Fluoride is also found in toothpastes and mouthwashes. Be careful, though: Too much fluoride can stain your teeth.
5. SEE YOUR DENTIST. Most adults should have a dental checkup once a year.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR DENTAL EXAM

Regular dental checkups are important for the health of your teeth. The dentist can detect problems early, when they are easier to treat. He or she can also offer tips for caring for your mouth. Here’s what else you can expect:

• Your dentist will review your overall oral health, looking for plaque and tartar build ups.
• Your mouth will be checked for signs of tooth decay, root decay and gum disease. These are easier to treat when caught early.
• The dentist will clean your teeth and remove any stains or tartar deposits.
• Your bite and jaw will be checked for an overbite or underbite.
• Dental X-rays may be done to check for deeper disease or decay.

Do you get nervous at your dentist’s office? Let your dentist know so he or she can help ease your concerns

The Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of your gums. It is caused by poor oral hygiene. Bad habits, like smoking, can also cause gum disease. If untreated, it can cause tooth loss.

There are two types of gum disease. Gingivitis is the less severe type and usually precedes periodontitis. Call your dentist if you notice these signs of gum disease:

• Your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth.
• Your gums are red, swollen or tender.
• You have constant bad breath, or a bad taste in your mouth.
• Your gums are receding.
• Your teeth are loose or shifting.
• There are changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR TEETH

Learn more about taking care of your teeth at nyc.gov/health. If you’re a MetroPlusHealth member and need help finding dentist, call MetroPlusHealth Plan at 1.800.303.9626.