As a local Davenport dentist, we practice preventative care so that our patients can stay in excellent oral health and avoid common problems like cavities and gum disease. We begin by having the individual practice good oral hygiene at home and following it up with regular trips to our dentist office. During the appointment, we will remove any bacteria and plaque that you are unable to reach during regular brushing and flossing. There are, however, ways that you can increase the effectiveness of your daily health care routine.
In order to get a good clean, one needs to start with a good toothbrush. We recommend that patients use a soft toothbrush because a hard one can irritate your gums and start to strip the enamel way from the teeth. This can lead to sensitivity and can even make one's gums bleed.
Do not use a toothbrush for more than three months. The toothbrush starts to become ineffective when one uses it for too long, causing the bristles break and fray. Upon noticing that the toothbrush looks like it is in good condition or has stains, make sure to replace it. Otherwise, use the three-month rule for buying a new one or replacing the head on an electronic toothbrush. As a Davenport dentist office, we also give out toothbrushes at teeth cleaning appointments.
The toothbrush needs to stay dry and clean. If an individual goes to brush his or her teeth and it is wet, more bacteria may be lingering on the brush itself. Use a toothbrush holder so that the toothbrush can air out during the day.
An individual's tooth brushing technique can make a large difference in how clean the teeth get. Move the brush around in circles and go from top to bottom on the upper teeth, while also going from bottom to top on the lower teeth. This way, food and bacteria are brushed away from the gums and roots.
Many people make the mistake of only brushing the teeth when they need to actually brush their gumline as well. People also need to brush their tongue and the roof of their mouth, since these areas can harbor bacteria as well.
Use toothpaste that has the American Dental Association seal. We also recommend using one with fluoride because it can help to strengthen teeth by placing minerals directly onto them.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, more if possible. In the best case scenario, our patients would brush their teeth after every meal, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash. These habits will help to prevent both cavities and gum disease from forming.
We can help you to stay in good oral health by removing the bacteria and plaque that you were unable to get with at home care. Call (563) 272-2331 today to schedule your exam.
Being a dentist means that we see all kinds of patients. Very often, patients want to know if there are things they can do in the course of their regular routine to make sure their teeth are in optimum oral health. While we know there is no magic way to make sure you do not…
As a kids dentist in Davenport, we treat many of the same issues in children as we do in adults. While the diseases and many of the treatments are the same, this is where the similarities end. Children are generally inquisitive in nature and want to know everything that is going on. When you place…
Our general dentist recommends brushing with a toothpaste that contains fluoride to give your teeth the highest level of protection possible against tooth decay. Fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical that helps to re-mineralize and strengthen teeth enamel.Fluoride can be found in natural bodies of water, as well as many fruits and vegetables like grapes…
Visits to your general dentist are done routinely, which for most people is twice per year or every six months. Sometimes, your dentist may recommend a deep dental cleaning. What is that? In this article, we will review what a dental cleaning is and when you might be due for one.Just like spring cleaning in…
Interested in professional teeth whitening after braces? Having braces removed can be exciting for patients who are eager to show off their newly-straightened smiles. Most people want to ensure that their smile looks its absolute best, especially once braces have been removed. One way to help achieve that is through a professional teeth whitening appointment.Professional…
Dental crowns, or tooth caps, are a common dental restoration for fixing broken, cracked, or decaying teeth. The goal of this dental restoration is to improve the size, shape, strength, and aesthetics of the tooth. Your teeth and the severity of the issue will determine whether the dentist suggests a dental crown for you. In…