Preventive Dental Care

Preventive dental care is important throughout your life, no matter your age. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with your dentist, 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 with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use 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 remove any extra plaque-causing food particles, and help keep your breath fresh!
Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can't reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
- Brushing Instructions
- Flossing Instructions
Printable instructions >
Brushing Instructions
- Brushing: Step 1
  
  Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.
- Brushing: Step 2
  
  Brush gently in a circular motion.
- Brushing: Step 3
  
  Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
- Brushing: Step 4
  
  Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.
Flossing Instructions
- 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.
- Flossing: Step 2
  
  Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.
- Flossing: Step 3
  
  Holding the floss tightly, gently saw the floss between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.
- Flossing: Step 4
  
  Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.
Eat a balanced diet, and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese or fruit can help keep your smile healthy.
Remember to schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months for a professional teeth cleaning.
Ask your dentist about dental sealants, a protective plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
If you play sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouthguards designed to protect your smile.