612-866-7000
1401 E 66th Street, Richfield, MN 55423
Request Appointment
Actively developing good oral hygiene habits will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease while supporting your oral health. Today, our Cedar Point Dentistry team in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has some tips to share with you on helping your teeth thrive.
Use ADA Products
Why ADA products? ADA-approved products are the gold standard as they are both effective and safe to use. This is important because you the consumer can rest assured that any claims made on the packaging have been proven to be true. Using an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste along with an ADA approved toothbrush will help protect your tooth enamel while you clean.
Toothbrush: Manual or Powered?
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush supports your teeth and gum health, as medium or firm bristles can damage sensitive gum tissue and tooth enamel. Both manual and powered toothbrushes effectively clean teeth, so it just depends on which you prefer. The size and shape of your toothbrush should fit comfortable in your mouth allowing you to reach all of your teeth.
Brushing Technique
To clean your teeth, hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums, brushing gently brush back and forth in short strokes. Clean the outside of your teeth, the inside of your teeth, and the tops or chewing surfaces. For the inside of your front teeth, hold the brush vertically, brushing up-and-down gently.
Caring for Your Toothbrush
You will know your teeth are clean when you run your tongue across your teeth’s surface and feel the smooth enamel. Rinse your toothbrush well to remove any stray food particles and toothpaste residue. Let your toothbrush air out between each use, storing it uncovered and upright, and avoid letting it touch another toothbrush to prevent contamination. Your toothbrush (or toothbrush head, if powered) should be replaced every 3-4 as the bristles wear down and become worn.
After Brushing, Floss!
Once your teeth are brushed, remove any additional plaque and food particles by flossing between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing is a vital tool that reaches those places that your toothbrush simply can’t. Indeed, brushing and flossing go hand-in-hand for excellent oral hygiene!
Finally, we strongly recommend coming in regularly for dental cleanings. Professional dental cleanings remove the hardened plaque (tartar) from your teeth and gumline. Dr. Wallace Lunden and the rest of our Cedar Point Dentistry in Minneapolis, Minnesota, are here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. To schedule your next check-up, please call us at 612-822-2176 today!
