At the Raleigh, N.C. office of Dr. Simon Melcher - Implants and General Dentistry - we believe that excellent dental care begins at home. Dr. Melcher and his team of experienced dental hygienists, work with each patient on the basic requirements for taking care of their teeth and gums. Our goal in doing so is to ensure that between their regular visits, patients are diligent and confident in establishing their own "at-home" regiment. Please use our handy checklist to make sure that your dental health is the best that it can possibly be!
- Create your dental tool kit - As with any routine task; having the proper tools is essential. Having these items on hand will make it easy to take great care of your teeth and gums:
- Soft-bristled toothbrush-manual or battery-powered*
- Fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss-waxed, nylon, or flavored
- Dental rinse that contain fluoride
- Tongue scraper
- Egg timer
- * The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Also, rinse well after each use and allow it to air dry to prevent the growth of bacteria
- Brush at least twice a day - It is ideal to brush after every meal and snack. If that is not possible, then brush twice each day and always before bedtime. Make sure to use small, gentle circular strokes to also keep the gums healthy. Pay close attention to the hard to reach spots and take the time to brush back molars, inside the upper and lower rows of teeth, tongue, and inner cheeks.
- Brush for 2 minutes each time - This is why you'll want to have an egg timer in your tool kit!
- Floss - This activity cleans the sides of your teeth and hard to reach places that are impossible for your toothbrush to reach. Flossing also stimulates circulation and conditions the gums. Did you know that each tooth has 5 sides? That is why brushing alone is just not enough.
- Scrape your tongue - Using this simple tool helps keep your breath fresher. Tongue scrapers are especially valuable in reducing bad breath because they enable the user to remove decaying bacteria that produces volatile sulphur compounds or VSCs.
- Rinse and swish - Complete your routine by swishing and rinsing with a fluoridated dental rinse or mouth wash. That adds a little extra oomph and a rinse can reach spots that brushing and flossing missed!
- Keep healthy snacks on hand and avoid sugar - Drinks and snacks loaded with sugar are harmful, cause the buildup of plaque and promote decay. Snack on fresh fruits and veggies and drink water!
Our team at Implant and General Dentistry are at your service if you have any questions, concerns, or just need a refresher on how to floss or brush correctly. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment: 919-782-0548
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