In many ways, you, as a patient, are in control of your own dental health! By maintaining a good oral hygiene routine at home, you give your mouth a chance to neutralize harmful oral bacteria and fight dental infections. So what can you do to give your smile the best chance of success? Here are some recommendations straight from our Elmhurst dentists…
Q: How often am I actually supposed to floss? Every week? Every day?
A: You need to floss your teeth every day in order to clean away harmful oral bacteria. Remember that plaque is building up all day, every day, so in order to prevent oral infections you need to get rid of bacteria before it has a chance to infect your tissues.
Q: What kind of toothbrush should I be using?
A: Most patients should be using a soft bristled or medium bristled toothbrush. Firm brushes are too abrasive for most patients, and will only needlessly wear away dental enamel. Our dentist can give you a personal brush recommendation at your consultation. We recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months, because the effectiveness of your brush will wear down with continual use.
Q: Does it matter when in the day I brush?
A: Yes, generally we recommend that patients brush in the morning (because plaque has built up on your teeth overnight) and before bed (to clear away plaque from the day). You can also brush after meals to limit the amount of plaque that develops from eating.
With proper daily maintenance you can keep your smile healthy and looking bright between professional dental cleanings. Our Elmhurst dentist office is here to give you the guidance and information you need to achieve optimal oral health. So give us a call or contact us online to get started right away!