Believe it or not you have a lot of control when it comes to determining the health of your teeth.  When you adopt healthy dental habits you not only impact the overall health of your teeth, but you get the extra added benefits of saving a significant amount of time and money over your lifetime.

1.  Brush Your Teeth!

     It may sound simple, but brushing your teeth three times a day will have a significant impact on the overall health of your teeth. 

2.  Floss Twice A Day!

     When we eat and even if we brush our teeth, food still gets caught between our teeth.  Flossing (preferably twice a day) properly will remove the debris and help prevent cavities.  Next time you are in the office ask one of our hygienist for tips on proper technique. 

3.  Eat Healthy!

     Proper nutrition plays an important role in good dental health.  Just like everything else, eating right also has an impact on your overall dental health.  Most nutritional foods are good for your teeth.  In particular, some foods we really like are:  apples, yogurt, cheese and shitake mushrooms actually help prevent plaque build up.  Limit your intake of sugar and sugary foods. 

4.  Visit Us!

     Regular check-ups will ensure that any concerns or problems are detected and treated early.  Regular visits to the dentist are an important part of your preventative care.  It not only gives us the opportunity to check your teeth, but we have an opportunity to talk and listen to you.  Think of this as your small investment to ensuring your teeth remain strong, healthy and beautiful over your lifetime. 

5.  Use a Mouthrinse!

     There are several antimicrobial mouth rinses on the market that have been clinically proven to reduce plaque, such as Listerine or Crest Pro Health.  Rinsing with one of these mouth rinses after brushing or eating can aid in cavity prevention. 

6.  Chew (Sugarless) Gum!

     Believe it or not, chewing certain sugarless gums can actually help to prevent cavities by increasing the flow of saliva in your mouth.  In 2007, the American Dental Association awarded their Seal of Acceptance to Wrigley's Orbit, Eclipse and Extra chewing gums for helping to prevent cavities. 

Simply following these suggestions will go a long way in improving your dental health, and giving you the extra added benefits of saving a significant amount of both money and time over your lifetime.