Dental News

Back to Basics: Staying Healthy with Preventative Dental Care

May 1, 2017

Back to Basics: Staying Healthy with Preventative Dental Care

Once in a while, the various offices of California Dental Group like to make sure that our clients are remembering the basics. In short, we want to make sure that everyone knows the best at-home oral health care options. Read on to learn more about how to best take care of your teeth and then contact us at (800) 407-0161 for your regular dental exam and cleaning.

It’s best to follow preventative dental care basics every day

There are many advantages to following a daily oral health care regimen, including reducing your chance of tooth decay, lowering your risk of cavities, freshening your breath, and otherwise improving your oral health. Both the American Dental Hygienists Association and the American Dental Association suggest that we brush our teeth every day and floss daily as well. We agree that this is the bare minimum.

That said, we’d rather see our patients brushing their teeth at least twice a day. You don’t need a ton of toothpaste – just about the size of a pea – and we recommend toothpaste with added fluoride to further protect your teeth from decay. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to protect your gums and aim to brush for at least two minutes. Try to get in and brush your teeth from every angle, and don’t forget to brush your tongue!

When you’re done brushing, rinse out your toothbrush before putting it away. It should be replaced every three to four months not only because the bristles can become worn and no longer do their job as well, but because toothbrushes love to hold on to bacteria.

As far as flossing goes, we do recommend that you do this every day. It’s a great way to clean both between your teeth and your gums, not to mention removing food particles that can’t be reached with a toothbrush and could easily begin to decay your teeth.

At California Dental Group, we typically use the word flossing but it actually applies to any type of interdental cleaner. We give out floss at your visit, but you could use a flosser if you’d like, or even a water flosser. Whatever is most comfortable for you and whichever you’re most likely to use on a regular basis is what we recommend.

Preventative care should be used in conjunction with regular dental visits

Just as important as your home care is visiting California Dental Group on a regular basis. Most people only need to come see us every six months, though those with more complex issues or ongoing treatments may need to see us more frequently.

During your visit, we’ll do a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tarter that can only be removed with professional dental equipment. We’ll also do an oral cancer screening, check for cavities, keep an eye out for symptoms of gum disease, and discuss potential treatments with you. If you’re ready to get started then we welcome your call at (800) 407-0161. With numerous offices throughout Southern California there’s one that’s convenient to you!

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