Important Dental Care Tips

Taking care of your teeth at home and seeing your dental provider on a regular basis are the best ways to care for your teeth. Proper oral hygiene is necessary on a daily basis, while regular dental exams and cleanings can reach spots you may miss at home and catch potential issues early before they become huge problems.

When caring for teeth at home, it is important to choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Harder bristles and abrasive pastes can wear down the enamel on the teeth more quickly, leading to an increased risk for decay and gum disease. Be sure to learn the proper way to brush your teeth. Do not brush too hard because this can damage the tooth enamel and the gums. It is also important to get a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. As bristles wear down, they may split and fray, causing damage to sensitive gum tissue.

In addition to brushing teeth at least twice a day, you should floss daily. This will help remove food particles and bacteria between the teeth where cavities can form unnoticed. Do not use a sawing motion when flossing. The dentist can show you the proper way to brush and floss at home and make recommendations for any products you should be using.

Be sure to see our North Hollywood dentist for biannual exams, x-rays, and cleanings. With proper care and prevention, your teeth can last a lifetime.