Preventive Care

Preventive Care

Preventive dental care is important throughout your life, no matter your age. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with your dentist, you can help keep your smile bright and healthy for many years to come.

Simple Steps to Prevent Decay

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush the top surface of your tongue too.
• Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks.
• Schedule professional cleanings every six months.
• Ask about dental sealants — protective coatings for the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
• If you play sports, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard.

Brushing Tips

1. Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.
2. Brush gently using a short, vibrating motion.
3. Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
4. Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of front teeth.

Flossing Tips

1. Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers, with most wrapped around one finger and the other taking it up as you use it.
2. Guide about one inch of floss between your teeth using your thumbs and forefingers.
3. Hold the floss tightly and gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve it into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath the gums.
4. Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.