From young children just learning to care for their teeth to older patients with a lifetime of experience with brushing and flossing, good dental health requires daily attention. And although we always look forward to seeing our patients twice a year for cleanings and check-ups, that’s just one small part of the equation. Here are some important tips to keep your teeth looking their best.
This one should come as no surprise! When food particles stay on your teeth for a long period of time, plaque begins to form—which makes a perfect hiding place for bacteria. Although plaque can be brushed away at first, it gradually becomes stickier and more difficult to remove. Brushing after every meal removes tiny bits of food and also stimulates saliva production to break down nutrients. If you can't brush after each meal, we recommend at least rinsing your mouth throughly with water to help release some of the food particles.
Even if you brush after every meal, you still need to floss—preferably at night. Brushing cannot reach between the teeth, so flossing at the end of the day helps reach hidden food particles and interrupt bacteria growth. The bacteria in our mouths, if left alone, can cause tooth decay and periodontal disease over the long term. Flossing not only keeps these active bacteria in check; it also stimulates gum tissue to help keep gums healthy.
Biting your fingernails, opening packages and popping soda caps are best left to instruments like clippers, scissors and bottle openers. Habits like these can damage tooth enamel and irritate gums.
Excessive consumption of acidic foods like lemon or lime juice can be hard on tooth enamel. So can crunching on ice, hard candy or tough-to-crack snacks (like CornNuts). Sugary drinks and snacks can also cause problems. We recommend drinking plenty of water and eating smile-friendly snacks like apples and carrots.
We can’t emphasize it enough—getting a regular dental exam and teeth cleaning at least twice a year is essential for anyone with teeth! A dental exam is a preventative screening that allows us to check for problems related to tooth decay, periodontal disease, oral cancer, blood pressure, TMJ (jaw grinding or clenching), snoring or any signs that could indicate a problem in another area of your body. If you have a history of periodontal issues, your hygienist may recommend visits every three to four months.
When used in conjunction with brushing and flossing, oral rinses help to soften and loosen food debris from teeth before brushing. Some rinses contain fluoride, which helps to prevent dental decay.
Our office takes X-rays to help diagnose decay and periodontal disease. Without X-rays, we are unable to completely diagnose what’s going on between teeth and underneath the gum tissue. Additionally, routine X-rays are required by the State Board of Dental Examiners.
Toothpaste: Colgate Total, Tom's of Maine and Stages (for young children)
Specialty Toothpaste: Sensodyne for sensitive teeth, Biotene for dry mouths
Floss: Glide
Toothbrush (traditional): Any soft toothbrush like Colgate 360º or Colgate Wave
Toothbrush (powered): Sonicare for adults or kids
Oral Rinse: Any rinse that doesn't have a strong alcohol content, such as ACT, Biotene or Crest ProHealth
Any tooth that feels uncomfortable when subjected to cold, heat, sweet flavors, touch, pressure or chewing is considered sensitive. Those with mild discomfort may benefit from the use of any toothpaste that’s ADA approved for sensitivity, such as Sensodyne. It’s also a good idea to choose a soft-bristled toothbrush since medium or hard bristles can cause gums to recede and expose the root surface, causing the sensitivity. If you have severe discomfort or a combination of symptoms, however, you could have a cavity or other condition that requires immediate attention. Always tell your dentist when you experience sensitivity of the teeth or gums.
Have a dental question of your own? Email the experts at Bobcat Dental. If we think others would benefit from the information, we may post your question—and our answer—here.
Although There Are Exceptions, The Following Milestones Are Typical:
