How to Take Care of Your Smile

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There are many things you can do to take care of your smile at home. Here some basics to remember.

First, your dental care starts with good dental hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure to produce short, tooth-wide strokes that gently remove debris and plaque from your teeth. Hard bristles or harsh pressure create problems for your teeth by damaging gums and enamel.

It is easiest to brush your teeth well when you have a fully functioning, fresh toothbrush.  Toothbrushes only last 3-4 months, even if they appear “fine.” Make sure you are replacing your toothbrush sooner if it appears frayed or worn.

When buying a new toothbrush, choose one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance on the packaging. This guarantees you are getting a quality product that won’t injure your mouth, if used properly.

Remember to floss or use another interdental cleaners once a day. This should only take about 2-3 minutes, and it will be time well spent. Make sure to only use products specifically designed for this process and approved by the ADA. Using other objects, such as a generic toothpick, can cause damage to your teeth and gums.

Support your dental hygiene with regular visits to your dentist. This will make sure you are on track, and that your teeth are getting as clean as possible. Twice yearly check-ups will also make sure that any problems are caught early, helping to avoid many major dental emergencies. For a dentist in the Greeley, Colorado area, call Nicholas A. Jamison II DDS at 970-506-1122. Dr. Nicholas A. Jamison II and our team will be happy to help you!