To keep your teeth and gums healthy, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Proper brushing and flossing remove plaque, prevent tooth decay, and reduce gum disease. Good oral hygiene also lowers the risk of bacteria-related health problems in the body. Regular dental checkups are essential for long-term oral health.
– Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue which helps remove any extra plaque-causing food particles and keep your breath fresh.
– Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
– Eat a balanced, nutritious diet. Try to avoid sugary food and drinks.
– Remember to schedule regular checkups with our hygienists and dentists every six months for a professional teeth cleaning.
– Ask our dentist about dental sealants, protective plastic coatings that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts. They are particularly useful for children who are prone to cavities.
– Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums
– Brush gently in a circular motion
– Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth
– Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth
When you schedule an appointment at Northglenn Dental, your dentist and hygienist will be able to help you with proper brushing and flossing techniques. Preventive care is the most important part of maintaining excellent oral health, so we encourage you to visit a dentist every 6 months for your professional cleaning.
For more information on how to brush and floss, read our blog on Why You Should Prioritize Preventative Care.
Many people grind or clench their teeth while during the day or sleeping. If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or notice that your teeth are wearing down or cracking, you may need a night guard. A consultation with your dentist is the best way to determine if a custom night guard could benefit you.
Preventive care is key to maintaining healthy teeth. Preventative dentistry includes things like regular at-home hygiene, exams by your dentist, oral cancer screenings, and dental x-rays. But one commonly overlooked tool for prevention is a custom night guard. Night guards are a simple yet powerful dental appliance designed to protect your teeth from damage caused by clenching or grinding while you sleep.
People who subconsciously grind or clench their teeth during sleep suffer from a condition known as bruxism, often caused by stress or tension.
Many people with bruxism only become aware of their condition once they or their dentist notice the signs. Upon waking up, you may have headaches or jaw pain. At your dental visit, your dentist may see abnormal tooth wear, shortening or flattening of teeth, cracked/ fractured teeth or fillings, or gum recession.
The best protection against bruxism is a custom-made professional night guard. A custom night guard is designed specifically for you using advanced 3D imaging technology. Made from a thin, clear acrylic material, a professional night guard provides a comfortable fit and protects your upper and lower teeth.
While a night guard won’t stop teeth grinding, it can significantly reduce its dangerous effects. By creating a barrier between your teeth, night guards prevent damage caused by grinding and reduce the pressure on your jaw muscles.
If left untreated, night time clenching and grinding can lead to serious problems with your oral health, like:
These conditions will become more severe over time and may require costly treatment to restore your oral health to proper function. A custom night guard offers long-term protection against damage or dental trauma. By preventing wear and tear on your teeth, you can save time, money, and discomfort.
Remember, preventive care is the foundation of great oral health, and a custom night guard could be the perfect step to protect your smile.
We’re here to provide personalized care so your smile stays healthy for years to come. If you may be experiencing headaches, jaw pain, or signs of tooth damage caused by clenching or grinding, please schedule an appointment with our team today.
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your dental care, we are more than happy to discuss how you can achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.
As a top dentist in Northglenn, we have helped hundreds of families achieve their oral health goals and are eager to help you and your family do the same.