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ORAL HYGIENE

The best way to prevent periodontal disease or cavities is by proper oral hygiene, including daily tooth brushing and flossing. Plaque is the primary cause of tooth decay and gum disease. Bacterial plaque, or biofilm, is a colorless film that constantly forms on the tooth surface near the gum line and needs to be removed daily. Twice daily brushing and daily flossing has proven to be the best method to remove plaque, as well as maintaining routine dental cleanings. 

Tooth Brushing

  • The ADA recommends brushing twice daily with a soft bristled tooth brush for proper plaque removal

  • Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

  • Place the bristles at a 45 degree angle pointed toward the gum line 

  • Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes

  • Brush the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of the teeth

  • To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up and down strokes

Check out this link for brushing quick tips!

Download the How To Brush PDF

Wooden Toothbrushes
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Flossing

  • The ADA recommends flossing at least once daily

  • Break off about 18 inches of dental floss and wind around the middle fingers of each hand

  • Hold the floss tightly with your thumbs and forefingers​

  • Gently guide the floss between your teeth and rub with and up and down motion on each tooth surface

  • When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a "C-shape" against one tooth and gently slide between the gum and tooth

  • Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions.

  • Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth.

Download the How To Floss PDF

Adjunct Dental Hygiene Aids

  • In addition to daily brushing and flossing there are many dental hygiene aids out there today, including:

    • electric toothbrushes

    • waterpik

    • mouth rinses

    • proxabrush

    • floss picks

    • and more

  • At your next visit, ask our team which aid would best fit you and your smile!

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Professional Cleaning

  • Daily oral hygiene habits are great at keeping plaque and calculus to a minimum; however, there  will still be areas that will be missed.

  • Routine dental checkups and professional cleanings are an important part of oral health to prevent periodontal disease and promote overall health. Get in touch to make your next appointment! 

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Image by Johannes Plenio
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