At sfdental, our first priority is preserving your natural teeth by performing thorough dental exams to catch the earliest signs of decay and gum disease. Patients are sometimes shocked to hear that by age 50, nearly half the population has lost at least one tooth due to these causes. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be the case! With routine oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings and check ups, a majority of our patients keep their teeth for their entire life.

Even though there are amazing tooth replacement options available today, such as ceramic onlays and dental implants, it is still preferable (and more affordable) to keep your natural teeth. That’s why we do everything possible to save your teeth. However, we need you as our partner to achieve this goal.

Patient Prevention of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Brush your teeth 2x a day (or more!). Take the time to do a thorough job: two full minutes is recommended. Electric brushes now come with timers to make this step even easier.

Use proper equipment. We recommend using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Extra credit for using an electric toothbrush, which can reduce plaque better than manual brushing.

Practice good technique. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, with the bristles toward the area where your tooth meets your gum. Gently brush with short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue.

Keep things clean. Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Store your toothbrush in an upright position and allow it to air-dry until using it again. Don’t leave your toothbrush exposed to airborne particles in the bathroom.

Replace often. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric toothbrush every three to four months.

Floss daily. Even an electric toothbrush can’t reach all the spaces between your teeth and under the gum line. Dr. Kim gives great flossing demonstrations. Ask for one next time you are in!

Visit your dentist regularly. During these visits, we may take dental x-rays, which can assist in diagnosing gum disease, cavities, and oral decay in their earliest stages before they threaten the life, health, and integrity of your teeth.

If it’s been longer than six months since your last dental cleaning, reserve an appointment today.

Further Reading