Oral Hygiene

Why is oral hygiene so important?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a soft film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line and constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing you can remove this bacteria and help prevent periodontal disease.

Choosing Oral Hygiene Products

There are so many products on the market that it can become difficult to choose from them all. Here are some suggestions for choosing dental care products that will work for MOST patients.

Automatic (electronic toothbrushes) are safe and effective for the majority of the patients.

Oral irrigators (water pik devices) will remove debris around your teeth, but will not remove plaque completely. You need to brush and floss in conjunction with the irrigator. Water piks are especially indicated for patients with braces, implants and/or  crown and bridge restorations. 

Fluoride toothpastes and mouth rinses, if used in conjunction with brushing and flossing, can reduce tooth decay by preventing plaque from forming as fast. 

WHY HAVE A Professional Dental Cleaning?

Daily brushing and flossing will keep dental calculus to a minimum for some, but a professional dental cleaning will remove calculus in places your toothbrush and floss have missed. Your visit to our office is an important part of your oral health to prevent gum disease.