Tips for Better Dental Hygiene


Tips for Better Dental Hygiene

By Wright Smiles

Good hygiene is the cornerstone of good dental health. For many people, hygiene consists of little more than brushing and flossing their teeth twice a day. However, good hygiene involves more than what you do at the kitchen sink. Your toothbrush and floss can clean your teeth, but only when used properly. With a little attention to detail and regular professional maintenance with your Southlake dentist, you can improve your dental hygiene and reduce your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, chronic bad breath, and more.

Effective Brushing & Flossing

  • Brush softly—Brushing and flossing helps clean plaque and food debris from the surfaces of your teeth. Scrubbing too harshly, though, can also strip your teeth of the enamel that surrounds and protects them from infectious oral bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush away debris and plaque, taking care not to apply too much force.
  • Take your time—For optimal results, you should carefully brush every surface of every tooth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing for at least two minutes every session to allow enough time for a thorough cleaning.
  • Use fluoride toothpaste—Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that is found in most toothpaste brands, and can be applied at our office for patients who require additional cavity protection. Fluoride bonds to tooth enamel, strengthening it in the face of bacteria-produced acid to reduce the risk of decay.
  • Stick to your routine—No matter how diligent you are about caring for your smile, it only takes a little bit of slacking in your routine to allow bacteria to infect your teeth and gums. Adhere to your routine as strictly as possible to ensure your teeth and gums remain clean and disease-free.
  • Seek professional help—The ADA also recommends visiting the dentist at least once every six months for a periodic dental checkup and cleaning. If plaque remains on your teeth for more than 48 hours, it will calcify (harden) into tartar and become impervious to your toothbrush. Our talented dental hygienists will thoroughly clean plaque and tartar from your teeth’s surfaces, and Dr. Wright will inspect your mouth for signs of trouble that may require attention.

About Gregory Wright, DDS:

As a native Texan, Dr. Gregory Wright opened his private practice in Southlake, TX in 1992. He is happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dentist, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.