Keeping your teeth and gums healthy at home is one of the best things you can do for your long-term oral health. Below are some simple steps to build a strong daily routine and protect your smile.

• Brush in the morning
  Brush your teeth—and your retainers, if you wear them—as soon as you wake up. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, preferably electric, and brush for at least two full minutes. When brushing the cheek side of your upper back teeth, close down slightlyso you can reach far enough back.We recommend using an electric toothbrush like Sonicare, which is available for purchase at our office.
• Floss first at night
  Floss between every tooth, including behind your very back teeth. Curve the floss into a “C” shapearound each tooth and slide it up and down gently.We recommend CocoFlossor another thick floss for better effectiveness. It can be purchased at our office or on Amazon.
• Brush again for two full minutes
  After flossing and rinsing well with water, brush again using your regular or prescription toothpaste.
  • Do not rinse after brushing. Spit out the excess toothpaste but avoid rinsing or drinking anything for at least 20 minutes.
  • This allows the fluoride or sensitivity ingredients in the toothpaste to stay on your teeth and work better.
  • Only drink water after brushing your teeth at night.

• Waterpik
  If you have periodontal disease—or just want to level up your home care—you can use a Waterpik.Use the Waterpik before brushingso you don’t wash away the benefits of your toothpaste.
• Rinses we recommend
  Stay away from rinses that contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth. Instead, try one of these:
  • TheraBreath Oral Rinse
  • ACT Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
  • Cepacol Mouthwash
  • PerioSciences AO ProRinse
  • CariFree Maintenance Rinse – Our top recommended brand, available in our office. Especially helpful for patients with periodontal disease, but beneficial for all patients.

• Acidic foods
  These can erode the enamel and increase tooth sensitivity.It’s okay to enjoy them occasionally, but avoid sipping or snacking on them throughout the day. Instead, consume acidic foods with meals or in a quick sitting.
• Chewing ice
  Ice is fine in drinks, but chewing hard ice can wear down enamel or break teeth. If you need to chew ice, stick to soft, airy ice (like nugget ice).
• Sugary foods and drinks
  Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause cavities. Like acidic foods, try to limit sugar to short time periods rather than grazing throughout the day. For your dental and overall health, we recommend minimizing added sugar intake when possible.