How to Take Care of Your Teeth

Taking care of your teeth is more than just a daily habit, it’s an investment in your health, comfort, and confidence. Healthy teeth and gums not only make your smile beautiful, they also prevent discomfort, costly treatments, and long-term dental problems. Below are some key tips and answers to common questions patients often have.

How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?

Even if your teeth feel fine, regular dental visits are essential. We recommend a check-up and cleaning every six months. This allows us to catch small issues before they become bigger problems. Some patients, especially children, those with gum disease, or people prone to cavities, may need more frequent visits.

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrush

Both electric and manual toothbrushes can clean effectively if used properly. However, research shows that electric toothbrushes are generally more efficient in removing plaque, especially from hard-to-reach areas. If you struggle with technique or motivation, an electric toothbrush may help you brush better and longer.

Best Time to Brush

The golden rule is to brush twice daily, once in the morning and once before bed. Brushing at night is especially important, as food debris and bacteria left overnight can lead to cavities and gum disease. If you enjoy acidic drinks (like coffee, fruit juice, or soda), wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to protect your enamel.

Toothpaste: Fluoride vs. No Fluoride

Fluoride toothpaste is the gold standard in preventing cavities. Fluoride strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to decay. For adults and children (with age-appropriate toothpaste amounts), fluoride is highly recommended. Non-fluoride toothpaste may be an option for those with sensitivities or specific medical advice, but for most people, fluoride is key to prevention.

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Don’t Forget Interdental Cleaning

Brushing alone cleans only about 60% of the tooth surface. The areas between your teeth, where food and bacteria hide—need special attention. Daily interdental cleaning is essential for preventing cavities and gum disease.

• Use dental floss if your teeth are close together.
• Try interdental sticks or brushes if you have slightly larger gaps.
• Ask your dentist which option is best for your teeth.

Making interdental cleaning part of your daily routine can dramatically reduce the risk of gum problems and bad breath.

Diet and Dental Health

What you eat plays a big role in your dental health. To protect your teeth:

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which feed bacteria and cause cavities.
• Avoid frequent snacking, teeth need time to recover between meals.
• Drink plenty of water, ideally fluoridated if available.
• Enjoy a diet rich in vegetables, dairy, lean proteins, and whole grains, which support healthy teeth and gums.

Preventing Cavities (Caries)

Cavities are caused by bacteria turning sugar into acid, which damages tooth enamel. To prevent them:

• Brush and floss (or use interdental sticks/brushes) daily.
• Use fluoride toothpaste.
• Visit the dentist regularly for cleaning and check-ups.
• Consider sealants for children’s teeth, these protective coatings help keep molars cavity-free.

“It's only the baby tooth, why should I care if it falls out anyway?”

When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Appointment?

The first dental visit should happen by the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits allow children to become comfortable with the dentist, and parents receive guidance on brushing, diet, and preventing cavities from the start.

Baby (primary) teeth are very important! They:

• Hold space for permanent teeth.
• Help children chew and speak properly.
• Prevent misalignment and crowding later.

If baby teeth are lost too early due to decay, it can affect the development and positioning of permanent teeth, sometimes requiring orthodontic treatment in the future.

What If My Child Is Scared of the Dentist?

It’s very common for children to feel nervous. To help them:

• Start dental visits early so the dentist’s office feels familiar.
• Keep explanations positive and simple, avoid words like “pain” or “needle.”
• Bring a favorite toy or comfort item.
• Trust that pediatric and family dentists are trained to make children feel safe and relaxed.

Creating positive dental experiences early in life sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits.

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