Preventative

Keeping a regular preventative maintenance schedule with your hygienist and Dr. Maria Kim helps you prevent not only tooth decay and periodontal disease but also avoid costly procedures and extra time in the hygiene chair.

A regular home prevention routine usually consists of brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once per day. But did you know there are other tools to make taking care of your mouth a little easier? Depending on your needs, there are special kinds of toothpaste, rinses, and even flossing aids that can help you keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come. Maria Kim, DMD can help you find the best tools to enhance your daily hygiene routine making your professional cleaning appointments shorter and less stressful.

Another significant factor in your oral health is your diet. Acidic foods and drinks can erode enamel just as a balanced diet can help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy.

Regular professional exams and cleanings, a dedicated at-home hygiene routine, and a healthy, balanced diet can help prevent minor issues from becoming major procedures.

A few tips for maintaining a healthy mouth:

  • Brush for at least two minutes twice a day and floss at least once a day: It sounds like a long time, but it makes a difference. Consider buying an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer or set the timer on your phone. If you don’t like to floss, consider toothpicks, proxabrushes, or a Waterpik.
  • Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly and replace it every three months: Bacteria linger on your toothbrush, finding their way back into the mouth the next time you brush.
  • Drink sugary liquids through a straw: A straw helps keep sugar from bathing the teeth directly before swallowing.
  • Drink water after eating a meal: Water helps clean larger deposits of food from your teeth. Plus, we all could use a little more hydration!
  • Get cavities treated immediately: Cavities rarely hurt until they reach a critical stage. And don’t forget: a little bit of tooth decay usually becomes a little bit more.
  • See your hygienist every six months: The risk of critical dental problems diminishes significantly if you’re visiting us twice a year. Patients that fit preventive dentistry into their schedule typically enjoy fewer dental visits and expenses over time than those who wait for emergencies to develop.