Dental Home Care in Oklahoma City, OK

Dental home care is an important part of preventative care together with regular cleanings and checkups performed by the dentist. It helps ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy. 

Basic dental home care includes the following:

Brushing

Brushing your teeth twice a day regularly can help prevent decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. It is vital to replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head about every three to four months.

Toothbrushes with soft or extra-soft bristled heads are gentle on the teeth, gums, and enamel. Medium and hard-bristled toothbrushes can cause gum recession and damage enamel, which is why dentists advise patients to avoid using them. 

Flossing

Plaque and tartar can build up between the teeth. Brushing after meals helps to remove food particles from the surfaces of your teeth, but flossing is the only way to reach deeper between the teeth. It removes harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Allowing plaque and tartar to build up can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis, which can be avoided by flossing regularly.

Rinsing

Ask our dentist in Oklahoma City, OK or hygienist about fluoride rinses and mouthwash. They can help remove plaque and freshen the breath.

Mouthwash is often alcohol-based and some also contain chlorine dioxide or chlorhexidine gluconate that prevents plaque from forming and makes your mouth feel cleaner.

Scraping the Tongue

Tongue scrapers remove bacteria and food particles from the back of the tongue. Using a scraper daily will help prevent halitosis or bad breath.

Limited Consumption of Acidic and Sugary Food

Consuming acidic and sugary foods and beverages can cause damage to the teeth as it leads to the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth that can wear down the enamel. The fewer sugary foods and drinks you consume, the better.

J. Russell Danner, DDS, in Oklahoma City, OK, is equipped with the best dental team and modern technologies that enable us to deliver excellent care to our patients. Call us at 405-749-1676 to schedule an appointment today.