It’s essential to know the different stages of dental health throughout life to prepare for the upcoming years and know how to protect your teeth. The first stage is childhood, as the first set of teeth start to develop. Maintaining oral hygiene to prevent cavities and decay is essential for building the foundation for a healthy smile. The next stage is the teenage years, where permanent teeth develop and don’t align properly. It’s crucial in this stage to maintain regular exams and cleanings to prevent tooth decay. Additionally, if your teen plays sports, we recommend they wear a mouthguard at practice and events. Once into adulthood, teeth can wear down, decay can cause damage, and tartar can build below the gumline. Tooth discoloration is often a common occurrence as well. Make sure to visit your dentist at least once every six months and maintain your at-home oral health routine. The last stage is senior dental care, when bridges, dentures, or dental implants need to replace missing teeth. There are many surgical and restorative options available to maintain the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. If you want to set up a dental appointment with the California Dental Care team, give us a call at (707) 741-6090 or contact us through the form on our website.