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At Harvest Hills Dental Care in East Gwillimbury, we want all our patients to enjoy the many benefits of having healthy teeth and gums. Because you only get one set of adult teeth, taking care of them is the key to oral health. Good dental hygiene at home, coupled with routine dental examinations and cleanings, is a big part of attaining that goal.
With 32 permanent teeth, it may seem like you could survive without all of them. However, there are many reasons why you would want to protect all 32 teeth with dental hygiene.
During your dental hygiene appointments, you will relax in one of our comfortable chairs while our hygienist cleans your teeth, removing any plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to decay and gum disease. Special attention is given to the areas between teeth where food particles can become trapped and difficult to remove. We then clean the teeth to remove surface stains so you can leave with a fresh, clean feeling smile.
As part of this appointment, the dentist will examine the mouth, looking for any early signs of problems so that treatment can be applied as quickly as possible. We also perform oral cancer screenings during these appointments.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, including once in the morning and once before bed. Brushing after meals is a bonus! Remember to use a toothbrush with softer bristles and a fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth sparkling and healthy.
Absolutely! Even with the best at-home routine, sticky plaque can harden into tartar in places your toothbrush and floss cannot reach. That is where our dental professionals at Harvest Hills Dental Care come in. Our team has the tools and expertise to clean your teeth and keep your smile healthy.
For most of our patients, cleanings are not painful or uncomfortable. You might feel a little tickling, scraping, or mild pressure, but many find the process satisfying and refreshing. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, just let your dental hygienist know before they start, as they often have strategies to make you more comfortable during the process.
It is strongly recommended that everyone visit the dentist at least every six months for a cleaning and a check-up. However, your Harvest Hills Dental Care team might suggest a different schedule based on your specific needs, so be sure to follow their advice.
While mouthwash is not an absolute must for most patients, it is still a fantastic addition to your routine. It can freshen your breath, reduce plaque, and reach areas that brushing and flossing might miss. Choose one with fluoride for some extra protection against tooth decay to make the most out of your mouthwash.
Sugary snacks and drinks are the biggest culprits behind cavities, but acidic foods like citrus and soda can also wear down natural tooth enamel. Enjoy all these in moderation and follow up with water or brush your teeth afterwards to keep your pearly whites strong.
Absolutely! While dental cleanings are not specifically for whitening, removing both plaque and tartar can make your teeth look brighter. For a dazzling, whiter smile, you might also want to consider professional teeth whitening treatments offered by your dental team at Harvest Hills Dental Care of East Gwillimbury and Newmarket, Ontario.
Absolutely! Flossing isn’t just a suggestion. It can be your secret weapon against plaque and gum disease. It removes food particles and buildup from between your teeth, which a toothbrush cannot reach.
Brushing your teeth and tongue regularly is key to keeping your breath fresh. But here’s another tip often suggested by the team at Harvest Hills Dental Care: drink plenty of water throughout each day to rinse away bacteria and chew on only sugar-free gum or mints to keep your mouth happy and minty-fresh.
Both can work wonders if used correctly, but electric toothbrushes can make your routine a bit easier and more effective, especially if you struggle with brushing technique. Plus, they’re a lot of fun to use and are great for children as well!
Bleeding gums might mean you’re being a little too rough when you brush or floss, but it can also be an early sign of gum disease. If you notice this happening often, check your brushing technique and consider visiting your Harvest Hills Dental Care dentist to get to the bottom of it.
Ready to maintain a healthy smile for life? Contact Harvest Hills Dental Care at (365) 659-1008 to make an appointment with our team for a thorough evaluation and education on keeping the teeth and gums healthy!
Routine checkups are an important part of your oral health and preventing unnecessary problems that could lead to losing teeth and expensive dental restorations. Paired with good at-home oral care, you can play a proactive role in achieving and maintaining a healthy mouth. To schedule your appointment, call Harvest Hills Dental Care today at (365) 659-1008.
