Oral hygiene basics

• Twice a day, for two minutes. Morning and before bed.
• Use a soft-bristled brush. Angle it toward the gumline and use small circles.
• Use fluoride toothpaste. It helps strengthen enamel.
• Replace your brush every three months. Sooner if the bristles are frayed.

A toothbrush cannot reach between teeth, which is where many cavities and gum problems start. Clean between your teeth once a day with floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser. If your gums bleed at first, keep going. It usually stops within a week or two.

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause decay.
• Watch the sipping. Sipping sweet or acidic drinks all day keeps teeth under attack.
• Drink water. Especially after meals and snacks.

• Using your teeth as tools. It can chip or crack them.
• Chewing ice or hard candy. Both can damage teeth.
• Tobacco. It harms the gums and raises the risk of oral cancer.

Professional cleanings remove buildup you cannot reach at home, and exams catch small problems before they turn into bigger ones. We also help you understand how to keep your teeth and gums healthy between visits.