Preventive dental care is worthwhile throughout your entire life. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with Bush Dentistry, you can help keep your smile bright and healthy for many years to come.
Here are a few simple ways that you can prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue; this will help keep your breath fresh!
- Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. This will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line where decay-causing bacteria can linger and your toothbrush bristles can’t reach.
- Eat a balanced diet and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, and fruit can help keep your smile healthy.
- Ask us about dental sealants: protective plastic coatings that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
- If you play sports, be sure to ask our doctors about special mouthguards designed to protect your smile.
- Brushing Instructions
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Brushing: Step 1
Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.
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Brushing: Step 2
Brush gently in a circular motion.
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Brushing: Step 3
Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
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Brushing: Step 4
Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.
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- Flossing Instructions
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Flossing: Step 1
Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and the other finger takes it up as the floss is used.
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Flossing: Step 2
Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.
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Flossing: Step 3
Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.
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Flossing: Step 4
Slide the floss up and down, and repeat for each tooth.
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