Dental Hygiene

Establishing good, routine daily oral hygiene habits play a large role in your oral health and your overall well-being. An effective oral hygiene routine can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. While your dentist and hygienist strive to meet all your dental needs much of the responsibility for keeping your smile healthy rests with you.

Regular hygiene cleanings and dental exams can prevent minor dental issues from developing into more extensive issues resulting in more invasive treatments.

How long should I brush my teeth?

We recommend that you brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes twice per day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. You may benefit from more frequent brushing, especially if you wear traditional braces with brackets and wires.

What can I do to keep my smile healthy?

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss at least once a day
• Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash once a day
• Consume a balanced diet limiting your intake of sugary and acidic foods to prevent tooth decay and wear.
• Visit our practice twice a year for a professional hygiene cleaning and a thorough dental check-up

What causes bad breath?

Some foods we eat, such as garlic or fish, can cause temporary bad breath. Poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, and gum disease can cause chronic bad breath.