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Oral Hygiene Questions

Studio City, California

Unlike sharks, adult teeth do not grow back. Once you have damaged your teeth or allowed them to become decayed beyond repair, there are no natural replacement teeth. At Smiles by Sands in Studio City, California, we are committed to helping adults make smart choices with their dental health as well as educating children, teenagers and adults on ways to maintain good oral hygiene for life.

Why is it important to have good oral hygiene?

Everyone has plaque on their teeth and gums. Plaque is a natural film of bacteria that can build up on the teeth, eventually hardening into substances called tartar or calculus if not removed. Eating meals and snacks, especially unhealthy choices, can produce harmful acids that attack the teeth and gums. Plaque can cause tooth decay and irritate the gums, leading to serious forms of gum disease.

The simple act of brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing properly helps to remove the harmful plaque that attempts to damage the teeth. Likewise, eating healthy meals and limiting daily snacking can aid in prevention of gum disease and tooth decay.

Regular visits to the dentist will ensure that the patient is effectively keeping plaque at bay. Dental hygienists can also remove any plaque or tartar build-up that the patient missed.

What is the most effective way to brush teeth?

To effectively remove harmful plaque, it is not enough to simply swipe a toothbrush haphazardly across the teeth. At Smiles by Sands, our staff can educate patients on the proper ways to brush, such as:

• Gently brushing the gums in a back and forth motion at a 45-degree angle
• Gently brushing all tooth surfaces: front, back, inner, outer and flat
• Moving the toothbrush across the tongue to eliminate bacteria and freshen the breath

Daily flossing is also important to good oral hygiene. Flossing should be performed gently between each tooth and toward the gum line. The floss should wrap the sides of each tooth all the way to the gum line, gently moving food particles and plaque away from the teeth and gums.

How often should I change my toothbrush?

Each time you come to Studio City cosmetic dentistry Smiles by Sands for a dental check-up (ideally every 6 months), you will receive a new toothbrush to use at home. However, even patients who maintain this visit schedule may also need to invest in new toothbrushes on their own in order to effectively brush their teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that people replace their toothbrush every 3-4 months or more frequently if the bristles become worn. Frequent toothbrush replacement will help to ward off germs and bacteria that can reside in the toothbrush.

If you have additional questions about oral health care, please contact our Smiles by Sands dental office today to arrange a consultation with our trained staff.