Dental Hygiene in Ormond Beach, FL

Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of fluoride toothpaste. Move the brush in small circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth and the surface of each tooth. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before you rinse.

Brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles and plaque:

• In the morning after breakfast
• After lunch or right after school
• After dinner
• At bedtime

As soon as the bristles start to wear down or fray, replace your toothbrush with a new one. Do not swallow any toothpaste. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after you finish brushing. It is important to carefully floss and brush daily for optimal dental hygiene.

For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach, dental floss is used to remove food particles and plaque. Dental floss is a thin thread of waxed nylon that is used to reach below the gum line and clean between teeth. It is very important to floss between your teeth every day.

Pull a small length of floss from the dispenser. Wrap the ends of the floss tightly around your middle fingers. Guide the floss between all teeth to the gum line, pulling out any food particles or plaque. Unwrap clean floss from around your fingers as you go so that you have used the floss from beginning to end when you finish. Floss behind all of your back teeth.

Floss at night to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed. When you first begin flossing, your gums may bleed a little. If the bleeding does not go away after the first few times, let a staff member know at your next appointment.

The teeth, bones, and soft tissues of the mouth require a healthy, well-balanced diet. A variety of foods from the five food groups help minimize and avoid cavities and other dental problems. Consumption of foods that contain sugars and starches should be decreased. These foods can include candies, cookies, chips and crackers. Healthier foods, such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt and cheeses, help promote stronger teeth.

You should visit your general dentist twice a year, once every six months. In order to maintain a healthy smile, it is vital to have professional teeth cleanings and regular dental checkups. Your dentist will examine your teeth and provide an evaluation of existing dental problems and proposed treatment. If you have a dental emergency, you should call your dentist immediately.

Tooth decay can be prevented with a careful dental hygiene regimen. Brush and floss your teeth daily, eat a balanced diet, and attend regular dental checkups. With regular attention from our team, we can catch potential problems early and help you avoid unnecessary costs later on.

Sealants are a thin coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They protect the grooves and pits where food and bacteria often collect, reducing the risk of cavities. Sealants are easy to apply and are especially helpful for children, though adults can benefit as well.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to decay. Professional fluoride applications are a quick part of a preventive visit and can support a healthier smile for years to come.