5 Dental Hygiene Tips
1. Brush And Floss
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, removes plaque buildup on the teeth and gums. Plaque is essentially a layer of bacteria that sticks in the mouth and can cause all sorts of oral health problems if it’s not regularly removed. Plaque can break down the tooth and create holes, known as cavities, and it can cause oral diseases and toothaches. Plaque doesn’t only build up on the teeth, it also builds on the tongue and gums. This is why you should brush your tongue when you’re brushing your teeth, as well as floss your teeth at least once a day. When you floss, make sure you’re getting under both sides of the teeth so the plaque doesn’t remain in the gum line.
2. Use The Right Toothbrush
Different oral needs and some areas of the mouth require distinct cleaning tools.
- For children who don’t have all their teeth yet, use a soft-bristled, child’s toothbrush (these have a small head for their little mouths) so that gums are still being cleaned without any pain from abrasive bristles.
- If your child has all of their teeth but struggles with proper brushing, an electric toothbrush can help them to get the thorough cleaning they need.
- People of any age who do not have all of their natural teeth should be brushing their gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and stimulate the gums.
- Anyone with dentures or dental implants should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically for their artificial teeth since these are not quite as strong as natural teeth. Dentures should be cleaned with denture solution instead of toothpaste, and since this denture solution is not meant to be consumed, use a different, soft-bristled toothbrush than you would use in your mouth.
- For those with all of their natural teeth, replace your toothbrush every few months or sooner if the bristles become worn or misshapen.
3. Know How To Properly Brush Teeth
Proper tooth brushing should take at least 2 minutes. If it’s hard to get your children to focus on this task for that long, try using a timer or find a song that’s at least 2 minutes long. Use no more toothpaste than the size of a pea and use a fluoride toothpaste for everyone over the age of 3.
4. Drink Water
When we eat or drink particles will remain in the mouth and affect the teeth. Acids, sugars, and other substances will remain in the mouth long after they have been consumed and wear away at the enamel. Drinking water helps wash food particles away and is an easy way to care for your oral health. Encourage your family members to drink water after eating, even if they’ve only had a snack or sipped some juice, to keep teeth healthy.
5. Visit The Dentist
Schedule dental exams for the family at least once a year for a cleaning and a checkup. This will help prevent cavities, check everyone’s oral health, and give you a chance to ask any dental hygiene questions. Children should have their first trip to the dentist either at 6 months old or when their first tooth erupts, whichever is first. Regular dental checkups for the whole family will ensure that any disease is being caught and treated early before it can develop into something worse.
Family Dentistry In NE Calgary
Fostering good dental hygiene habits within your household will lead to better, brighter smiles and will limit the need for dental procedures. Whether you have a young child in need of their first checkup, a teen in need of Invisalign®, or you yourself need a dental service, Marlborough Dental Centre in Calgary has all of your family dentistry needs. Dr. Popp and the staff at Marlborough Dental Centre are experienced in solving a variety of dental issues, including dental services for children and seniors, as well as restorative treatments, cosmetic procedures, emergency dentistry, and more. To schedule an appointment with a Calgary dentist, call Marlborough Dental Centre at 1-403-248-2066 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: What do I do if my child gets a cavity?
A: If your child gets a cavity they will need a filling, whether it is a permanent tooth or a baby tooth. Even though the baby tooth will eventually fall out, leaving the cavity without a filling will lead to more bacteria in the mouth, future dental complications, more expensive treatment, and pain for your child as the cavity can easily cause toothache.
Q: Does Marlborough Dental offer family dental services?
A: Yes we do. Marlborough Dental Centre offers dental services for all, including senior dental care, restorative dental services, cosmetic dentistry, dental hygiene for all ages, emergency dental services, and dental care for children.
Q: When should my child start losing their teeth?
A: Children should lose their baby teeth somewhere between the ages of 6 and 12. If your child is over 12 and still has one or more baby teeth, visit Marlborough Dental Centre in NE Calgary to schedule a dental exam and determine the proper course of action.
