Dental Hygiene Burton, MI
Maintaining a healthy mouth and teeth requires good oral hygiene and consistent care. From an early age, it is important to learn proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as to attend regular oral health check-ups and professional dental cleanings. Your dentist can also help you learn which products support a healthy smile, as well as which ones to avoid. This is especially important for families seeking pediatric dentistry in Burton, Michigan to establish strong habits early.
Brushing and Flossing
Brushing and flossing are the most basic of daily oral hygiene tasks, although most people are not doing either correctly. You should brush your teeth in the morning, as well as at night, just before bed, to prevent the accumulation of plaque. Take care to brush in a circular motion using gentle pressure, and don’t forget to brush your tongue, as well. At least once per day, be sure to floss, as well.
Choosing a Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Your dentist can help you choose a toothbrush and toothpaste that fit your individual health needs. In many cases, a soft-bristled brush is preferred not only for comfort but also to protect the teeth and gums. Harder bristles can cause damage to the gums and enamel. We recommend using an electric toothbrush as it will allow you to clean the harder-to-reach areas better. When shopping for toothpaste, you should be mindful of ingredients. For example, your dentist may recommend looking for a toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps protect against tooth decay. Others may benefit from a toothpaste that helps minimize tooth sensitivity.
Watch What You Eat
Your diet affects your wellness in many ways, including your oral health. Reaching for candy and sugary beverages can feed harmful bacteria, accelerating the process of tooth decay. The same is true of acidic foods, which can wear away at the enamel on your teeth. While you do not have to stop eating the foods you enjoy, consider doing so in moderation, frequently swapping out harmful items for those that promote better oral health, such as crunchy fruits, vegetables, and water.
Schedule Regular Dental Exams
You should see your Burton dentist with regularity – at least twice per year. Skipping even one dental visit can allow for the accumulation of plaque and tartar that are harmful to the teeth and gums. It can also allow hidden problems to continue undetected for a longer period of time until they cause uncomfortable symptoms or perhaps even irreversible damage.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
How often should dental cleanings be scheduled?
Most dental professionals recommend scheduling cleanings every six months to maintain oral health and prevent plaque buildup.
What’s the correct way to brush teeth?
Teeth should be brushed in gentle, circular motions using a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes, focusing on all surfaces and the tongue.
Why is flossing necessary if brushing is done regularly?
Flossing reaches areas between teeth and under the gumline where toothbrushes can’t clean effectively, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Are electric toothbrushes better than manual ones?
Electric toothbrushes often provide more consistent and thorough cleaning, especially for hard-to-reach areas or individuals with limited dexterity.
Can poor oral hygiene affect overall health?
Poor dental hygiene has been linked to health conditions like heart disease and diabetes, making consistent care important beyond just the mouth.
Get A Smile Makeover!
Whether it’s preventive care or a complete smile makeover, our team is here to support your goals. Choose Burton Family Dentistry for personalized care that puts your smile first. Call 810-744-2982 or schedule an appointment today.