Preventative Care
Preventative Dental Care with Redwood Dental
At Redwood Dental, we believe the foundation of a stunning smile begins with healthy teeth and gums. Our comprehensive preventative dental care services aim to combat the challenges posed by bacteria, plaque, and other factors that jeopardize oral health.
Effective Plaque Removal: Brushing & Flossing
Brushing and flossing daily are the primary ways to keep plaque at bay.
Brushing: Ensure you brush twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and an antimicrobial toothpaste with fluoride. Techniques recommended by the American Dental Association include brushing at a 45-degree angle to the gums, employing short strokes, and cleaning all tooth surfaces.
Flossing: Essential for reaching areas between teeth where brushes can’t. Use about 18 inches of floss, ensuring you slide it between teeth and gums, and employ up-and-down motions for thorough cleaning.
Understanding Plaque and its Impact
Plaque is a sticky layer of material loaded with bacteria that forms on teeth. It’s responsible for causing cavities, gum irritation, and potentially leading to gum disease. When plaque isn’t removed, it can result in gums pulling away from the teeth, creating pockets filled with bacteria, leading to potential tooth loss.
Apart from sugary foods, plaque accumulates from starches such as bread, crackers, and cereal also contribute to acid formation by the bacteria in plaque.
for maintaining a radiant smile:
Visit Redwood Dental for an assessment of your preventative dental care needs
Enhancing Oral Cleanliness with Mouth Rinses
Mouth rinses can further boost oral cleanliness. While antimicrobial mouth rinses target bacteria and plaque, fluoride mouth rinses are specifically designed to combat tooth decay. It's vital to consult with your dentist before incorporating a new mouth rinse into your regimen, especially for children or if you have specific dental conditions.
Sealants: Shielding Your Teeth
Sealants offer a protective layer over the grooves and depressions on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, making them less susceptible to cavities. These resins, mainly applied to molars and premolars, can last for years but do require periodic checks.
Fluoride: The Cavity Combatant
Fluoride strengthens teeth and makes them more resistant to decay. Its regular intake, combined with proper oral hygiene practices, ensures a marked reduction in cavities. Depending on the fluoride levels in your primary drinking water, our dentists might recommend supplements to bolster your dental health.
what they say about our clinic
What a great group of dental professionals! Everyone was so friendly and even though it was my first visit I felt like they all knew me and made me feel welcome. Thanks so much!