Best Practices for a Healthy Smile

Encinitas, Carlsbad, and San Diego

A healthy, beautiful smile starts at home with daily care that you provide for your teeth and gums. Proper brushing and flossing as well as regular cleanings are necessary to maintain good oral health.

 

Healthy brushing

 

We recommend brushing for at least two minutes twice a day. The most important time to remove bacterial plaque from your teeth is at night before you go to bed. This allows for your gums to heal during the hours you are sleeping.

 

It is also important to brush your tongue daily. The top surface of the tongue has many natural grooves that trap bacteria and can contribute to gum disease and bad breath.

 

About your toothbrush

 

Just as important as brushing properly is using the correct toothbrush. Your toothbrush should have soft or extra-soft bristles. Using a toothbrush that is too stiff can damage your tooth enamel and irritate your gums.

 

Based on the health of your gums, we may recommend an electric toothbrush and can discuss which options are the best for you. Replacing your toothbrush every three months is important and this includes brush heads for your electric toothbrush. Be sure to clean your brush after each use and let it air-dry.

 

Flossing

 

It is important to floss every day and preferably at night before you go to sleep. Brushing your teeth only cleans the exposed surfaces, while flossing gets into the areas between your teeth where most cavities occur. We will show you the best technique for flossing in order to get on each side of the gum and will recommend floss or other hygiene aids that will assist you in keeping your mouth healthy.

 

Regular cleanings and check ups

 

A regular dental cleaning and check-up will help to maintain your periodontal health and ensure that any developing problems can be detected early. Our hygienist will assess which interval of time between cleanings is appropriate in maintaining that balance point.

 

Find out what cosmetic dentistry can do for you. Please contact us today to schedule your complimentary cosmetic dentistry consultation. See the results for yourself by viewing our Before and After Gallery.