Newport Beach dentists have seen it all, and they’ve treated it all. It’s common for patients to come in who have been neglecting their teeth for years, and if that’s the case, then root canals, extractions, and all manner of other procedures are sometimes necessary. Surgical techniques have gotten to the point that these treatments are nowhere near as painful and invasive as they used to be, but they’re still no fun, and no one wants to go through them. Preventative dental care is the optimal way to make sure that you don’t have to go through these things as an older adult. Here are some tips from your dentist Newport Beach on how to keep your gums and teeth healthy.
Proper Brushing
Most people know that you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, but how you are brushing is just as important as the frequency. You should start brushing at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Use short back-and-forth strokes across the tops and sides of your teeth. After that, brush the gums vertically and use light, short strokes to focus on the backs and front anterior sections of your teeth where plaque builds up. You should also be brushing for a full two minutes. If you have trouble timing yourself, you could set a timer on your phone. This will ensure that you’ll fulfilling the recommended amount of brushing time.
The Right Brush
Your Newport Beach dentist recommends that you use a brush whose bristles and head are small enough to reach into the crevices in your molars. That is where particles of food tend to hide. To ensure that you are using a good brush, look for the ADA label on the packaging. The American Dental Association seal of acceptable means that you are getting one that was manufactured according to strict regulations, and it should give you a thorough and reliable cleaning every time.
If you follow these guidelines, it’s likely that you can avoid extractions and all of the other more unpleasant procedures that go along with neglecting your oral hygiene. Be sure to stop by your Newport Beach dentist and get those teeth cleaned every six months. Your life is so much better with strong and healthy teeth.