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Oral Hygiene

Baby brushing teeth

Proper personal oral hygiene is really a simple matter. It means this: Every surface of every tooth must be kept free from organized colonies of bacteria (plaque). Make our program a habit. Teeth can be maintained for a lifetime if the plaque is removed once a day, every day.

  • Your Goal: Keep teeth and the area around the teeth free from plaque.
  • Your Measure of Success: No bleeding and no plaque.
  • Technique: The actual technique of plaque removal is explained below.

Brushing

Start on your upper right side. First brush the chewing surfaces, then brush the cheek surfaces, followed by the inside of the mouth, all the way around your tongue, finally reaching back to the farthest part of your mouth.

Flossing

Start on the upper right side. Floss all interproximal (between the teeth) areas.

Rinsing

Rinse thoroughly with water or mouthwash. You may also use a water irrigation device if you have one.

Staining

Stain your teeth with disclosing stain for 30 seconds. This stain identifies bacterial plaque.

Inspecting

Inspect each surface of each tooth; start on the upper right, then remove any stained plaque.

Your child will have improved dental health with regular cleanings and the application of topical fluoride. Fluoride combines with the enamel and dentin of your child’s teeth to make the teeth harder. This helps prevent tooth decay. A definite reduction in cavities has been proven when:

  1. Topical fluoride is used.
  2. Fluoride is present in the water or fluoride tablets/drops are taken each day.
  3. Fluoridated toothpaste is used with children over the age of 2 years.

Locations

Associates in Pediatric Dentistry6988 E. Brainerd Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37421423-894-6614Get Directions

Associates in Pediatric Dentistry

Let us help you! We believe that excellent care begins with open communication. If you need more information, have any questions, or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us.