3 Quick Tips To Improve Your Dental Routine

Looking to improve your dental routine? We've got 3 quick tips to make things easier next time you come see us! 

1. Treat Yo Self... To A New Toothbrush
   A lot of people don't realize how important the right toothbrush is. Many rely on the toothbrush they get at their 6-month appointment or whatever is cheapest. We want everyone to know that all toothbrushes are not the same!! Using a manual toothbrush can be as effective as an electric if used properly however, it can be tough to select the right bristle softness, apply the right amount of pressure, or even brush the full 2 minutes. Using an electric toothbrush takes the guesswork out of brushing. A lot of electric toothbrushes have a pressure indicator that notifies you when you're brushing too hard, and with the newest technology can even let you know what areas you aren't brushing as well. So, take our advice and "treat yo self" to an electric toothbrush!

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2. Do The Floss, Then Floss!
    We know that all the "scraping" we do when you come see us can be annoying, but did you know that you play a big part in how much of that we have to do? Flossing helps you to remove plaque between the teeth while it is still soft. If left undisturbed this plaque will turn into hard tartar, which is what we remove from your teeth at your cleaning appointments. In addition to the string floss we send home with you, there are "flossers" that are easy to take with you on the go. So, combine your two minutes of brushing with floss and give plaque the ol' one-two punch before it turns into tartar!

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3. Rinse After Brushing
   Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in water, soils and some foods, it is essential to the development and maintenance of healthy teeth. Fluoride acts as a protective layer against the effects of all the bacteria found in the mouth, and when it comes into contact with teeth, it interacts with the acid created by the bacteria and can rebuild the enamel on the teeth. Without help from fluoride, the enamel breaks down, leaving your teeth vulnerable. There are many fluoride rinses on the market that are perfect to rinse with after brushing. When done properly, brushing, flossing, and a fluoride rinse make a perfect trifecta!