Seeing us for routine checkups and cleanings helps our Richfield, MN, patients maintain healthy smiles. However, that alone isn’t enough. Caring for your smile from home is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding the onset of tooth decay and gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brushing and Flossing
Question: How do I pick the right toothbrush?
Answer: We always suggest a toothbrush with soft bristles. If you brush too rough with hard or medium bristles, you could damage the enamel. In the manual versus electric toothbrush debate, we feel either option is good as long as you’re brushing your teeth for two minutes in the morning and again before going to bed.
Question: Does the toothpaste I pick matter?
Answer: We suggest purchasing a toothpaste with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. You should buy some with fluoride, which strengthens outer tooth enamel. Also, be wary of toothpastes offering whitening benefits, as they often contain abrasive agents designed to remove stains but that could also lead to tooth sensitivity.
Question: How do I floss correctly?
Answer: You should clean between your teeth each night before bed. You can use a floss pick, floss tape, or a water flosser, as long as you’re flossing up and down the length of the tooth, dipping below the gumline to remove any and all food caught between the teeth.
Question: How often do I clean my teeth at home?
Answer: You should care for your smile every day without exception. We suggest brushing your teeth twice each day, once when you wake up and again before you go to bed. Flossing should occur at a minimum of once before bed. However, you can also floss after each meal to keep your smile clean. If you have any questions about caring for your smile, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Good Oral Hygiene?
We want to help you maintain a healthy smile with good oral hygiene. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Keller by calling Cedar West Family Dentistry in Richfield, MN, today at (612) 861-7188.
