Is It Time To Change Your Approach To Brushing Your Teeth?

It is hard to overstate the positive impact that a good brushing routine can have on your oral health. When you are consistent with this practice, and take the time to fully clean the different areas of your smile, you can protect yourself against tartar buildup, gingivitis, and tooth decay. Unfortunately, even though people are aware that brushing is important, they often fail to see how their approach to smile care could be improved. At our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office, we can recommend positive changes to your daily oral care routine to help you avoid future problems that require restorative dental work whenever you visit us for routine oral health care. In addition to offering guidance, we can provide an expert cleaning and evaluation during your appointment to help keep your smile in good condition.

A Good Brushing Routine Is Important At Any Age

From the moment your child’s first teeth start to arrive, brushing (and general dental care) will be important. As you age, your brushing routine remains valuable. In fact, you may need to put more thought into your daily care because gradual enamel erosion can make you more vulnerable to cavities over time. A good routine is one that can ensure your full smile is cleaned, that you are using the toothpaste, and that you are cleaning at your gum line.

Common Mistakes That Interfere With Quality Smile Care

So what kinds of mistakes can lead to your smile becoming vulnerable to harm? One thing to pay attention to is what you use to care for your teeth and gums. A soft bristle brush can be effective at clearing away plaque and food debris, but it is important to pick up a replacement when appropriate. Typically, a brush should be replaced after three months. You should also verify that your toothpaste contains fluoride, so you can keep your teeth better defended against cavities.

When it comes to establishing a routine for smile care, focus on consistency. You should brush your teeth at least two times each day, and your goal during every session should be to fully clean every tooth. You should also be mindful of the motions you use to clean teeth. Brushing at your gum line is vital to your periodontal health, because you remove those harmful bacteria that can cause gingivitis by doing so.

Dental Exams Keep You Updated About The Effectiveness Of Your Smile Care Routine

If your smile routine has become less effective, there is a greater chance that your dentist might find a cavity during your next routine dental exam. If this occurs, the tooth can be restored with a dental filling before its condition grows worse. These visits are also important because in addition to daily cleaning sessions, you should enjoy regular cleanings from your hygienist. These sessions remove tartar buildup, something you are not able to do through brushing and flossing alone.

Dental Impressions In Ankeny, IA Can Help You Maintain Healthy Teeth

At Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, patients of all ages can count on our practice to provide important ongoing oral health support. To learn more,  by calling Dental Impressions today at (515) 965-0230.