Macedon Family Dentistry: Dentist Lisa Spinello, DMD

A beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime is our ultimate goal when treating patients. Your personal home care plays an important role in achieving that goal. Your personal home care includes:

• Eating balanced meals
• Reducing the number of snacks you eat
• Using the various dental aids that help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease

Brushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. Along with professional dental cleanings twice a year to remove plaque, tartar and debris, excellent home care methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle and prevent serious diseases. Using an electric toothbrush is also highly recommended. 

• Tooth brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA-approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.
• Flossing: Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.
• Rinsing: It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with Dr. Joseph or Jeni Behrman or our dental hygienists on its appropriateness for you. Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

Personal care along with dental cleanings and exams, can help you prevent tooth decay, periodontal disease, halitosis, and help keep your teeth bright. If you need a brush up on your brushing or flossing techniques, or if you have any questions regarding brushing, flossing or rinsing, talk to us at your next visit.