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Maintaining oral health is more important than treating disease.
You think that if it does not hurt, everything must be OK.
DON’T WAIT FOR AN ACHE!!
Preventive Dental Care- Your Smile is Forever
There are a number of ways to keep teeth and gums healthy no matter what your age. Good habits start early. Parents can help their children by:
- Brushing and flossing daily to remove plaque until the children can clean their teeth well on their own around the age of 9.
- HAPPY VISIT You can introduce your child at age 3 for their first visit. They can have a ride in the chair, count their teeth and a polish. Don't worry mom's.....if they are not impressed we will try again in 6 months.... after all, it is a Happy Visit.
- If you have a concern before age 3 eg: possible tooth ache or nursing bottle syndrom, noticable decay...please contact your dental office immediatley
- Limiting the number of snacks containing sugar or carbohydrates.
- Taking your child for a dental check-up at least once a year. Every 6 months is ideal.
- Providing mouthguards for sports.
- Modeling good dental health habits for your child by taking care of your own teeth and gums
Flossing
Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line areas where your toothbrush can't reach. Gum disease and cavities often start in these areas so it is important to clean them thoroughly once a day. Flossing becomes easier with practice. You will find that flossing takes only a few minutes. Your dental hygienist can review the technique and different options for flossing as well as hydrogen peroxide rinsing to help remove the plaque.
Medication
Medicine can be a source of sugar that is often overlooked. Ask your doctor about prescribing sugar free medicine. When buying ‘over the counter' medications, choose sugar free products.
If a child must use a medicine containing sugar, clean the teeth or rinse.
TIPS FOR BRUSHING YOUR TEETH
Brushing your teeth removes plaque and food particles. The best kind of toothbrush for general use is one with round-tipped, soft bristles. A child will need a smaller brush than an adult. Replace a toothbrush when the bristles become bent or frayed, (usually every three or four months) or after an illness. There are several methods of brushing that may be used. Ask your hygienist which is the best technique or if an electric toothbrush might be an option for you as well. Thorough brushing takes 2-3 minutes and don’t forget your tongue. This will help remove bacteria and freshen the breath.
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