Preventive Care
Preventive dental care is important at every age throughout your life. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with your dentist and hygienist, you can help keep your smile bright and healthy. Here are a few simple ways to prevent the build-up of plaque and calculus (tartar) in order to prevent cavities and gum disease:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush all tooth surfaces with special focus on and under the gum-line to remove bacterial plaque and food particles. Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen the tooth surfaces. Also, be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue. Simply drag the brush (or tongue scraper) from back to front; this will remove any plaque food particles, and help keep your breath fresh!
- Clean between your teeth at least once every day. Bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can't reach causing decay and gum disease. Flossing is an excellent method to remove food and bacteria from the sides of the teeth. Toothpicks or spiral brushes can be helpful for those unable to floss. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria, remove food particles and freshen your breath.
- Brushing Instructions
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Brushing: Step 1
Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.
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Brushing: Step 2
Brush gently in a circular motion.
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Brushing: Step 3
Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
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Brushing: Step 4
Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.
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- Flossing Instructions
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Flossing: Step 1
Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and the other finger takes it up as the floss is used.
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Flossing: Step 2
Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.
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Flossing: Step 3
Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.
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Flossing: Step 4
Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.
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- Brushing Instructions
- Flossing Instructions
- Eat a balanced diet, and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, or fruit can help keep your smile healthy.
- Remember to schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months for a professional teeth cleaning.
- Ask your dentist about dental sealants, protective plastic coatings that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
- If you play sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouthguards designed to protect your smile.
If it's been six months since your last dental checkup, then it's time to contact our practice and schedule your next appointment!