Oral Health Tips

Both natural teeth and teeth with restorations survive best in an oral environment that is clean and where the intake of harmful foods is controlled. Our program is designed to help prevent new cavities, preserve teeth that have been restored and manage periodontal disease. At the initial visit oral hygiene instructions are reviewed and are reinforced at subsequent recall visits.

The Following are Helpful Recommendations:

Brush your teeth twice a day in a circular motion with a soft bristled toothbrush aimed at the gum.
Floss every night in an up-and-down motion while keeping the floss in a U-shape and against the tooth surface.
Avoid smoking.
Avoid sticky sugary foods.
There are many high-quality products on the market today. There also are many products of dubious value.
Eat a balanced diet.
Use antiseptic and fluoride rinses as directed.
Have sealants placed on young permanent teeth. Visit any pharmacy or health and beauty section of a supermarket today, and you are faced with a large, and many say confusing, array of over-the-counter remedies and devices designed to help you tend to your hygiene and health-care needs.
Whatever over-the-counter dental product you buy, it is strongly advised that you ensure it has the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.

Brushing

Brushing is the most effective method for removing harmful plaque from your teeth and gums. Getting the debris off your teeth and gums in a timely manner prevents bacteria in the food you eat from turning into harmful, cavity causing acids.

Most dentists agree that brushing three times a day is the minimum; if you use a fluoride toothpaste in the morning and before bed at night, you can get away without using toothpaste during the middle of the day. A simple brushing with plain water or rinsing your mouth with water for 30 seconds after lunch will generally do the job.

Brushing Techniques

Since everyone’s teeth are different, see us first before choosing a brushing technique. Here are some popular techniques that work:

Use a circular motion to brush only two or three teeth at a time, gradually covering the entire mouth.
Place your toothbrush next to your teeth at a 45-degree angle and gently brush in a circular motion, not up and down. This kind of motion wears down your tooth structure and can lead to receding gums, or expose the root of your tooth. You should brush all surfaces of your teeth – front, back, top, and between other teeth, rocking the brush back and forth gently to remove any plaque growing under the gum.
Don’t forget the other surfaces of your mouth that are covered in bacteria – including the gums, the roof and floor of your mouth, and most importantly, your tongue. Brushing your tongue not only removes trapped bacteria and other disease-causing germs, but it also freshens your breath.
Remember to replace your brush when the bristles begin to spread because a worn toothbrush will not properly clean your teeth.
Effective brushing usually takes about three minutes. Believe it or not, studies have shown that most people rush during tooth brushing.