Maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile for life starts with proper home care. Our dentists emphasize the importance of daily habits that support strong teeth and gums. A balanced diet, limiting snacks, and using the right dental tools can help prevent plaque buildup and protect against dental disease.
Tooth Brushing
Brushing your teeth at least twice daily, especially before bed, with an ADA-approved soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste is essential.
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and use gentle, circular motions to clean the teeth while ensuring the bristles make contact with the gumline.
- Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
- Use the brush tip to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth.
- Brush your tongue to reduce bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
Electric toothbrushes are highly effective in plaque removal. Simply place the bristles against your teeth and gums, allowing the brush to do the work for multiple teeth at a time.
Flossing
Flossing daily is key to removing plaque and food particles between teeth and under the gumline. This helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and bone loss.
- Use 12-16 inches (30-40 cm) of floss, wrapping it around your middle fingers while leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) to work with.
- Gently guide the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
- Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and move it up and down along the tooth surface and under the gumline.
If traditional floss is difficult to use, floss holders can make the process easier.
The Benefits Of Oral Appliance Therapy
Choosing Silent Nite for sleep apnea treatment comes with several advantages:
- Comfortable fit: Custom-made for your mouth, ensuring a snug and irritation-free experience.
- Quiet and non-intrusive: No loud machines, air pressure, or masks.
- Portable and travel-friendly: Easy to carry, making it convenient for use anywhere.
- Improved sleep quality: Reduces snoring and breathing disruptions for a more restful night.
- Better health outcomes: Helps lower the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.
This treatment option is ideal for individuals who find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or want a more natural way to manage their condition.
Rinsing
Rinsing with water after brushing or after meals can help flush away debris and bacteria. If using an over-the-counter mouth rinse, consult with your dentist or dental hygienist to ensure it fits your oral health needs.
Additional Dental Aids
Your dentist or dental hygienist may suggest additional tools to enhance your home care routine. These may include interdental brushes, rubber tip stimulators, tongue cleaners, irrigation devices, fluoride treatments, and medicated rinses, all of which contribute to maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums.
For expert guidance on your oral care routine, schedule an appointment with our trusted dental care providers in Edison, NJ.
