PA Department of Health Ruling Regarding Dental Appointments

Brush, Floss, Mouthwash. Repeat.

To maintain a healthy smile there are a number of good habits to adopt, here are a few to start with. Including these daily habits will decrease the chances of gum disease, bad breath, cavities, and sensitivity.

Let’s start with brushing. A white smile can’t happen overnight! However, making small specific changes in your routine will gradually help. Bacteria are constantly forming at the gum line and surfaces of your teeth. Make sure to brush your teeth for 2 to 3 minutes every day, you can keep a timer or even play a favorite song of the same length so you know you are brushing long enough. Before bed, make sure to floss your teeth. Your toothbrush can’t reach all the crevices in your mouth, flossing will help reach all the places your toothbrush can’t. Finish your routine strong with mouthwash to get a refreshing clean feeling!

Never skip flossing because you think you have the wrong tools. Other tools you can use to clean include wooden sticks, plastic picks, a floss holder, and small interdental brushes. If you do have floss grab a piece that is an arm’s length long. Wind up most of the floss around your middle finger of one hand. Using your thumbs and index finger grip the floss and lightly glide it between your teeth. As you move from tooth to tooth make sure you are gripping a fresh section of floss to avoid the transfer of plaque to other teeth.

Never wait till the last minute to schedule a checkup with your dentist. Try to schedule follow up appointments before you leave the dentist. Make sure you are seeing the hygienist for a cleaning twice a year too.

These three tips are very important for your oral health. If you can manage these three you can improve the look and feel of your teeth. Be consistent with your brushing, floss correctly, and schedule accordingly. Your smile with be shining bright in no time!