Good Oral Hygiene

A preventive approach is the key to having a great and healthy smile. Neglecting your oral health as you get older can have negative consequences and lead to irreversible oral health problems. This can include gum recession, tooth decay, tooth loss, bone loss, periodontal disease, and oral infection. Dental health problems will eventually lead to more costly corrective treatment.

Brushing

Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use short circular strokes to brush over each tooth. Brush the front, back, upper and lower teeth. Brush for about 2 minutes. Brush 2-3 times per day, especially right before you go to bed. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria that can cause bad breath. Replace your toothbrush every three months to prevent bacteria build-up and prevent using worn-out bristles which do not clean teeth properly. Do not over brush your teeth which can lead to gum and tooth problems.

Tips: Use fluoride-containing toothpaste to help strengthen the enamel and fight against cavities. Brush with Sensodyne toothpaste if you have tooth sensitivity. Results with Sensodyne can take up to 4-6 weeks.

Flossing

Floss at least twice daily to remove sticky foods, plaque, and bacteria between your teeth. Flossing can help reduce cavities and gum problems. Start with a 14-inch piece of floss wrapped around your middle finger on one hand, and then wrap your middle finger on the other hand. Place the floss between each tooth. Now move the floss up and down between each tooth while making a C-Shape with the floss as you reach your gums.

Tip: Use wax-coated floss if it is difficult to pass between teeth. A water flosser, like Waterpik, is a great substitution if traditional hand flossing can not be performed for any reason.

Mouth Rinse

Rinse with a mouthwash after brushing for about 30 seconds. We highly recommend using Listerine as a mouthwash. Mouth rinses can help reduce plaque retention, gum inflammation, and cavities. It also reduces bacteria that cause bad breath.