Oral Hygiene

Why Oral Hygiene Matters

Keeping your mouth clean isn’t just about fresh breath — it’s the key to keeping your teeth for life.

• Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum disease than to cavities.
• 3 out of 4 adults will experience gum disease at some point.

The good news? Daily brushing and flossing can prevent most problems.

Both cavities and gum disease are caused by plaque — a colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms along the gumline. Regular brushing and flossing remove this buildup and keep your mouth healthy.

Caring for Sensitive Teeth

After dental treatment or whitening, you may feel temporary sensitivity to hot or cold.

• Keep your mouth clean — this helps sensitivity fade faster.
• Use a sensitive-teeth toothpaste or medicated mouth rinse if recommended.
• Contact us if discomfort persists beyond a few days.

Choosing Oral Hygiene Products

With so many products available, it can be hard to know what’s best. Here’s what we recommend:

Toothbrushes & Tools

• Electric toothbrushes (like Oral-B or Sonicare) clean effectively and are gentle on gums.
• Interdental brushes or soft picks can clean between wider spaces — ask us how to use them properly.
• Rubber tips can gently massage your gums after brushing.

Toothpastes & Rinses

• Fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and prevents decay.
• Fluoride or anti-plaque rinses (ADA-approved) can boost your routine and fight early gum disease.
• Tartar-control toothpaste helps above the gumline — but daily cleaning below the gumline is still essential.
• Avoid adult rinses for children under six unless advised by your dentist.

Remember: Oral irrigators (water flossers) are great for rinsing, but they don’t replace brushing and flossing.

Professional Cleanings

Even with excellent home care, some buildup (calculus or tartar) can only be removed by a hygienist.

• Schedule routine professional cleanings every 6 months.
• Your cleaning helps prevent gum disease and keeps your smile healthy and bright.

Daily care + regular dental visits = a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.