Good oral hygiene for a happy, healthy mouth: Three fundamental tips from your Langley City, BC, dentist
Dr. Harpreet Aulakh and the team at Smile365 Dental want to keep you and yours smiling confidently and comfortably, day in and day out. One of the best ways we can do this is in partnership with you and your family. We like to empower our patients with credible information and preventive services – the foundation for good oral hygiene near the Langley City, BC, office.
Tip No. 1: There is a right way to brush.
First, we commend you for consistently brushing your teeth at least twice every day. However, the technique makes all the difference in removing the bacteria, sugars, and starches that promote tooth decay and inflamed gums. The next time you brush, make sure that you:
- Are using a brush with soft bristles and a fluoride toothpaste
- Replace the brush at least once every three to four months (or after you’ve been sick)
- Clean the inside of your mouth, including your tongue, gums, palate, and cheeks
- Brush well for at least two minutes each time
- Clean the brush well, and let the bristles dry thoroughly before putting them in storage
Tip No. 2: Make sure flossing is part of your daily routine.
If you only brush your teeth, you’re missing a significant portion of each tooth’s surface. In fact, around one-third of every tooth isn’t touched by the toothbrush – that’s a lot of food debris just sitting there, attracting bacteria, and promoting plaque build-up.
One of the best things you can do for your mouth is to floss every day. Break off at least 18 inches every time you floss. So, you aren’t reusing portions of floss and relocating bacteria from one part of your mouth to another area. Floss thoroughly, for at least two minutes. Dr. Aulakh or her friendly certified dental hygienists can recommend specific types of floss or threaders, should you have problems flossing with standard products or between crowded or back teeth.
Tip No. 3: Visit us!
Your home care may be excellent, but it is no substitute for professional care at Smile365 Dental. Depending on your risk factors for conditions like gum disease and oral cancer, Dr. Aulakh may want to see you for recall exams and cleanings more often than once every six months. In addition to Dr. Aulakh’s extensive expertise, patients benefit from preventive services only available at the dentist’s office, including sealants to protect hard-to-clean back teeth.
How long has it been since your last cleaning or exam? Call (604) 409-8660 to schedule an appointment at the Brookswood, BC, office of Smile365 Dental. Get into a healthy routine, which is fundamental for good oral hygiene, health, and well-being.