Dental Tip - Healthy Brushing

Many of us don’t put much thought into brushing and can develop bad habits of improper brushing. When you brush your teeth, keep in mind these important tips to keep them healthy: (www.mayoclinic.com)

·         Brush your teeth at least twice a day. When you brush, don't rush. Take enough time to do a thorough job.

·         Use the proper equipment. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably. Consider using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush effectively.

·         Practice good technique. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth and brush with short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing, which can irritate your gums.

·         Keep your equipment clean. Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Store your toothbrush in an upright position, if possible, and allow it to air dry until using it again. Don't routinely cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers, which can encourage the growth of bacteria.

·         Know when to replace your toothbrush. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric or battery-operated toothbrush every three to four months — or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

Back to School Dental Tips

It’s that time again! Summer has come and gone, but now we have to get our kids ready for a new school year. With the hustle and bustle of school supplies, schedules, and after school activities don’t forget the health checklist. A dental exam is on the top of many parents’ back to school checklist.  One of the main causes why children miss school is because of a toothache. There are several things you can do to keep your child’s teeth healthy in between dental visits.

1.       Brushing- Look for a tooth paste with fluoride in it and brush for at least 2 minutes

2.       Flossing- If your child does not have all of their permanent teeth, brushing usually takes care of the flossing part. Flossing becomes more and more important as your child grows and gets their permanent teeth.

3.       Diet- Watching what your kids eat and drink can help keep their teeth healthy. Candy, sugar, and acidic foods can cause serious wear and tear on their teeth. Try to squeeze in crunchy veggies and swap out sodas and sugary drinks for water whenever possible

Lakeway Smiles wishes everyone a happy and safe school year!