Caring for your teeth and gums is essential to your oral and overall health. When your mouth isn’t healthy, you are prone to gum disease and tooth decay. You are also more susceptible to other health issues, such as cardiovascular concerns, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and stroke.
At Bass & Watson Family Dental, we are committed to educating and helping our patients maintain the best oral health possible. One way we do this is to promote good oral hygiene habits by educating you and your family about brushing, flossing, and making regular visits to our Apex dental office.
Brushing and Flossing for Optimal Oral Health
Proper oral hygiene instruction is the best way to avoid dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities. Here are some basic guidelines to follow when practicing good oral hygiene:
- Eliminate food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath and tooth decay. Floss first by cleaning in between each tooth.
- After flossing, brush your teeth, gums, and tongue for at least two minutes.
- A good rule of thumb is to brush after each meal.
- Keep floss, toothpaste, and a toothbrush in your purse, desk, and car.
- If you cannot brush and floss, rinse your mouth with water or chew sugar-free gum after eating to remove food particles around your teeth.
Caring for Dental Restorations
When it comes to dental restorations and orthodontic clear aligners, here are some tips to keep your mouth clean and healthy:
Dental crowns and bridges – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around your bridge or crown, and use floss threaders to remove food particles around and underneath these restorations.
Invisalign – If you wear Invisalign clear aligners, remove them to eat, brush, and floss your teeth. Be sure to clean your aligners with a toothbrush and warm water.
The Importance of Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is the foundation of your oral health. When you visit our dental office every six months for a checkup and cleaning, we can diagnose and treat any dental issues before they worsen. The benefits of preventive dentistry include the following:
- Improved oral and overall health
- Improved oral hygiene
- Decreased dental costs
Do You Need More Information about Dental Cleanings in Apex, NC?
If you have questions about the importance of regular dental checkups and cleanings, the expert dental team at Bass & Watson Family Dental is ready to take your call! You can reach us to set up an appointment or get more information about personalized care instructions by calling (919) 362-6789.
We are happy to help!