Upcoming Changes: We will be moving to the following location as of July 29th, 2024. 9246 NE Windsor St Hillsboro, OR 97006 |
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Brushing and Flossing Advice In Hillsboro, OR
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You only get one permanent set of pearly whites. If you want to keep them, you must take care of your teeth. When performed on a regular basis, a good oral hygiene routine can help ensure dental health over the long haul. It is also important to see your dentist at least twice a year for checkups and professional cleanings. Here are few words of advice we give our patients about at-home care.
Oral Health 101Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two biggest threats to your dental health. Both are caused by bacteria in the mouth that attach to the gums and teeth. To greatly reduce the risk of these serious oral issues, you must keep tooth surfaces and your gum line clean. The best way to do that is with regular brushing, flossing, and gargling (mouthwash). Follow these specific steps to protect your smile.
BrushingAccording to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day. To prevent plaque from gaining a foothold, it is important to use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Concentrate most of your attention on scrubbing the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of the teeth. The gum line itself should also receive a gentle brushing to remove bacteria that can cause inflammation.
FlossingAs effective as brushing may be, it cannot reach the tight spaces between teeth where food particles hide. If left to their own devices, these particles can harden into plaque, which can lead to gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. Regular flossing can remove up to 80 percent of these deposits! Even so, only about half of Americans floss daily. Don't be one of them! Protect your dental health by flossing at least once a day.
Water FlosserUsing a Water flosser is an excellent complement to your daily dental health regimen. These devices use adjustable, pulsating streams of water to remove food particles from between the teeth and around the gumline. A water flosser should never replace flossing, but it can be very helpful when caring for braces, other orthodontics, crowns, bridges, and implants. This fast and easy cleaning method is also useful when treating certain gum diseases and specific health challenges such as bad breath or diabetes.
MouthwashAlthough it is not a replacement for brushing and flossing, gargling with a good antimicrobial mouthwash can reduce plaque and bad breath, and inhibit bacterial activity that can cause the periodontal gum disease, gingivitis. With that said, it should never take the place of either brushing or flossing, but it can be used as a healthy addition to a good oral hygiene routine.
Make An AppointmentThe final step in any dental health plan is to see your dentist for regular checkups. Here at Rask Family Dental, we are happy to hear from new and returning patients. With four dentist on staff, you can schedule an oral exam at your convenience. We can then give you a much clearer picture of your dental health. Contact us at (503) 614-0454 to book your appointment today! |
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