Lakewood dental practice offers tips for healthy teeth and gums

When thinking about a trip to the dentist, many people simply think about the condition or appearance of their teeth or smiles. A healthy mouth and smile, however, is dependent upon the proper care of the teeth, gums and bones. Strong bones and gums are necessary to support and stabilize the teeth. Periodontal disease weakens the gums and bone, and can lead to eventual tooth loss.

Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is vital for patients who wish to achieve optimal oral health. At South Lakewood Dental, Dr. Scott Stewart and our team of dental professionals help our patients to establish and follow a personalized oral health plan, which includes:

• Annual or twice per year visits to the dentist. Not only does professional cleaning and examination keep teeth and gums healthy, but regular oral health screenings will monitor and detect changes occurring in a patient’s mouth and prevent serious problems from developing.
• Proper nutrition. Following a well-balanced and nutritious diet is essential for overall health. Certain foods, such as those containing high levels of starch or sugar, should be limited. Sweets, like sugared gum and candies, and starches, including chips and crackers, stick to the teeth and can lead to decay.
• Appropriate oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing, using the appropriate toothpaste and toothbrush, are critical elements of a day-to-day routine.

Brushing tips:

• Brush twice a day, at least, and within a half hour after a meal
• Use a gentle, circular motion and address each tooth individually, all surfaces
• Angle the tip of the brush against the gum line
• Avoid aggressive or back-and-forth brushing
• Brushing the tongue, from the back to the front, helps to remove bacteria and prevent bad breath
• Use a new toothbrush every three to four months

Flossing tips:

• Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque that builds between the teeth
• If plaque remains, it becomes tartar which requires a dentist or hygienist to remove
• Using approximately 18 inches of floss, wrap the middle finger of each hand, exposing about an inch-long piece for flossing
• Guide the floss gently up and down and along the gums, using the index finger
• Address the upper teeth first
• Release and rewrap clean floss as needed

Contact South Lakewood Dental today to achieve your healthiest smile. Appointments may be requested online or by calling (855) 233-0023.

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Dr. Scott Stewart - South Lakewood Dental

Dr. Scott Stewart is a practitioner of dentistry for over 25 years and has acquired much expertise over the years. Along with his talent, Dr. Stewart appreciates the multitude of contributions made to the field of dentistry via novel and progressive technology.

Whilst being passionate about his service to the community, Dr. Stewart is a revolutionary in his approach to tackling dental health care issues. He is a firm believer in the harmonious balance of the body as opposed to treating symptoms. He emphasizes on the holistic practice of wellbeing and addressing underlying issues to make the “whole person” healthier.

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