Every year, the warmer temperatures of spring signal the start of something new—fresh flowers, green grass, and refreshing rainfall. Not everything comes just once a year though.
When it comes to your smile, the bacteria in your mouth are always blooming (which the ADA talks about here). Two kinds in particular are responsible for a common dental problem like cavities: Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus. Fueled by sugar and other carbs, these bacteria multiply, triggering the demineralization of tooth enamel and causing cavities.
Keep Your Smile Healthy with a Regular Home Care Routine
To control these bacteria, and the resulting decay, one of the best things you can do is maintain a regular home care routine. We recommend brushing twice a day, flossing at least once, and using a trusted antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash.
As effective as this routine can be, though, it can be undermined by not brushing for at least two minutes. Toothbrushes from Sonicare make this easy with a two-minute timer, while some children’s brushes are designed to play a song for two minutes, giving your son or daughter a fun way to brush for the recommended amount of time.
Flossing may not seem that important compared to brushing, but it is. Flossing helps you remove food particles from between teeth. When these particles aren’t removed, they’ll break down over time, leading to an increased risk of gum disease and decay
Regular Visits for Yourself and Your Family
In addition to brushing and flossing at home, regular visits are also important. We recommend seeing Dr. Salzberg-Siegel twice a year for an oral exam and professional cleaning. We can also use products like CariFree and Oxyfresh to provide more comprehensive care. CariFree measures the amount of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth while Oxyfresh targets the sulphur compounds that cause bad breath.
On top of all this, Dr. Salzberg-Siegel can also advise you on how to set a good example for your child at home. One way is by making it a point to brush together until your child is old enough to brush on his or her own.
Is It Time for Your Family’s Next Checkup?
To schedule a routine visit for yourself or your child, call our Clinton Township dental office. During your visit Dr. Salzberg-Siegel can talk to you about your home care routine and can recommend changes or improvements if need be. Our office serves patients from communities all around Clinton Township.