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4 Simple Oral Care Tips for the Entire Family

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Did you know 31% of adults and 16% of children have untreated cavities? Cavities are one of many oral health issues that can happen to anyone.

Oral health is more essential than just keeping your teeth and gums clean. Your oral health also affects your entire body, which is another reason to keep those pearly whites clean and healthy all the time — not only when you visit your favorite family dentistry practice.

But how do you improve your oral hygiene? We’ve been taught to brush twice a day and floss once a day our entire lives, but that may not be the only thing to properly maintain your oral health. Here are 4 oral health care tips for the whole family.

1. Brush Twice a Day and Floss Once a Day

Yes, this is the golden rule we’ve been taught our entire lives. But this simple step is essential to our oral care.

Why brush twice a day? Brushing in the morning removes the undisturbed plaque that formed while we were sleeping and brushing at night destroys the bacteria that developed throughout the day.

Flossing not only removes the food stuck between your teeth but also removes the plaque and tartar that forms around your teeth.

In addition, you should change your toothbrush at least three times a year. Teenagers with braces and older adults with arthritis and other health conditions may need special toothbrushes.

2. Get Sealants

Sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces at the back of your teeth. These coatings can prevent tooth decay in the pits and fissures of your molars. Dental sealants are recommended for both adults and children, so talk to your family dentist about getting sealants.

3. Start Your Children Early

Did you know you should start brushing your child’s teeth when their first tooth appears? This is usually when a child is six months old. Yet, too many kids have poor oral health — even as they grow up into adolescents.

To brush a baby’s teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or even a damp cloth. Once they reach the age of two, they can brush and floss on their own (though you should be there to supervise).

4. Use Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens enamel. This prevents cavities are other dental health issues.

Fortunately, you can find fluoride everywhere. Just about all toothbrushes include fluoride as a main ingredient and fluoride is found in other places, such as your drinking water. There are also fluoride mouthwashes and other fluoride applications you can put on your teeth.

However, don’t use too much fluoride — especially for young children. Fluoride can cause white spots on teeth.

Visit a Great Family Dentistry Today

While these tips will help you achieve great oral health, you shouldn’t forget to visit your family dentistry. Your dentist can give you a deeper clean and will recommend certain products that will help you achieve excellent oral health.

Are you looking for a new family dental clinic? If you’re in Bryn Mawr, PA, contact us to schedule an appointment.

Experience Exceptional Care at Dillon Family Dentistry!

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