Preventive Care

Preventive dental care is important through out your life. Understanding and practicing good oral hygiene can help ensure you will have a great smile for the many years ahead. By practicing good oral hygiene and attending regular cleaning appointments you are not only preventing the build up of plaque that may cause decay and cavities, but you are preserving the work you have had done already.

• Brushing your teeth at least two times a day and after meals if possible will help prevent the build up of food particles and plaque that can cause tooth decay. Fluoride enhanced tooth paste is recommended to help strengthen the enamel.
• Cleaning between your teeth with floss at least once a day will help prevent the cavities that develop in between your teeth that you may have missed with your tooth brush. Regular flossing also helps condition your gums and prevent the early onset of gum disease that can lead to tooth and bone loss. Oral mouth rinse can also help get in between your teeth as well as destroy the bacteria by introducing alcohol molecules to their environment.
• Eating a balanced diet and choosing food with fewer sugars are also important in the upkeep of your oral health. The bacteria have no way to grow if they cannot find carbohydrates and nutrients to feed off of.
• Scheduling regular cleanings with your hygienist every 6 months will allow us to thoroughly clean any built up plaque and tartar you may have missed, and to diagnose any decay before it becomes to rampant.
• Ask Dr. Cynthia Skiba if you think you would be a good candidate for sealants. This fills the anatomically deep grooves in your teeth making them easier to clean and less like to trap food and plaque.
• If you participate in contact sports or think you may be a grinder ask Dr. Skiba about an occlusal guard to help prevent possible damage or excessive wear.

If it’s been six months since your last dental checkup, then it’s time to contact our practice and schedule your next appointment! Dr. Cynthia Skiba will be happy to answer any questions you may have in regards to proper oral hygiene.