Health Education and Home Care Guides

We are committed to educating and helping our patients successfully care for their teeth and gums. We provide several instruction guides for help with care at home or after procedures. Select from the menu on the left to view the guides.

A daily oral hygiene plan helps to prevent cavities and gum disease, as well as helping to fight bad breath. If periodontal disease progresses, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause other systemic health problems. Practicing good oral hygiene prevents dental problems as well as having a positive effect on your overall health.

Home Techniques

Brushing

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, and after meals. After eating, food particles can remain on teeth to combine with bacteria in your mouth. This produces acids that attack your teeth and cause decay. Cleaning your teeth after eating can help remove dental plaque which contains bacteria.

To brush properly, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gums. Brush in a circular motion to reach all surfaces of the tooth. Brushing the tongue will help to remove the bacteria that causes bad breath. The American Dental Association recommends using a fluoride toothpaste to help prevent dental decay.

The key to best brushing is to brush longer, not harder. Brush for two minutes with a soft-bristle brush, softly, so that gums are not irritated or damaged. You should replace your toothbrush every three months.

Flossing

You should floss your teeth once a day to remove the accumulation of dental plaque. Flossing can get into the areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. Start by easing the floss between the teeth, and gently rub it up and down, curving it toward the tooth to dislodge any plaque. Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth. Waxed floss and floss holders are available. Find the product that you are most comfortable with and you will be more likely to floss.

Mouthwash

Mouthwashes can also assist with removing bacteria that causes plaque and bad breath. There are also mouth rinses available with fluoride to help prevent tooth decay.

Nutrition

Research shows that nutrition plays a large role in dental health. Good nutrition plays a part in developing healthy teeth and gums. Sugars and carbs promote tooth decay, and choosing healthy snacks with low sugar can help maintain oral health.

Regular Dental Visits

It is recommended to see your dentist every six months. Professional dental cleaning will remove dental tartar that you can’t remove on your own. Six month check-ups can highlight areas of concern and prevent them from causing problems later on.