Preventing oral health problems is an important part of our practice philosophy. Prevention involves procedures, such as cleanings, sealants and radiographs, but also education and behavior modification. Below are some of the ways to prevent potential problems with your teeth, gums and mouth.
Brushing
- Adults are advised to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes.
- Be sure not to use too much pressure, as this can abrade the roots of the teeth.
- If using a manual brush, use small concentric circles and angle the brush at a 45 degree angle.
- Replace your brush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles get frayed.
Flossing
- A great flossing technique is to wrap the floss around your middle fingers and then extend it to your index fingers. Use the index fingers to access the teeth and make sure to use an up-and-down motion on both teeth.
- It is advised to floss at least once a day or when food is stuck in your teeth.
- Floss threaders, handled floss aids and other products can help in areas where you have tight contact, permanent retainers or if you have decreased manual dexterity.
- If there is an areas in your mouth that packs food, talk to your dentist to see if there is a way to fix it. Packing food can result in a localized periodontal defect or decay on the surrounding teeth.
Mouth Rinses
- For bad breath, mouthwashes can be helpful. One such mouthwash is Breath RX.
- We often prescribe fluoridated mouthwashes such as Prevident or ACT for patients with a high risk of decay or exposed root surfaces.
- For some patients with periodontal concerns or acute gingivitis, we may prescribe a chlorohexidine rinse to reduce bacteria and the associated inflammation. This is usually a short-term solution.
- For people with dry mouth (xerostomia), a oral salivary substitute is helpful. One such product is Biotene. The increased moisture in the mouth aids in speech, eating, and fighting decay.
