top of page
iStock-2194197607.jpg

Maintaining a Healthy Smile

Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and proper oral care is essential for keeping it healthy and beautiful for years to come. At Prairie Dental we're committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile through professional care, expert advice and tips for your at-home routine.

Regular Dental Visits

We recommend visiting us every six months for:

​

  • Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup

  • Comprehensive oral examination

  • Early detection of cavities or other potential issues

​

Some patients may benefit from more frequent visits, particularly those with:

​

  • Gum disease

  • High risk of cavities

  • Certain medical conditions like diabetes

  • Weakened immune systems

iStock-179150393.jpg

Daily At-Home Care Routine

iStock-1403038924.jpg

Proper Brushing

  • Brush twice daily for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste

​

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every 3-4 months or as soon as you notice wear

​

  • Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums

​

  • Use gentle, circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces

​

  • Don't forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh

iStock-1441471859.jpg

Don’t Skip Flossing

  • Floss at least once daily to remove plaque between teeth

​

  • Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most around your middle fingers

​

  • Hold the floss tightly between thumbs and forefingers

​

  • Guide the floss between teeth using a gentle rubbing motion

​

  • Curve the floss around each tooth in a C-shape and gently slide it under the gum line

iStock-1422531708.jpg

Water Flossers: A Powerful Addition

Water flossers like Waterpik® are excellent supplements to traditional flossing, particularly for:

​

  • People with braces or dental work

  • Those with mobility or dexterity issues

  • Patients with sensitive gums

  • Individuals with implants or bridges

​

Benefits include:

  • Removes plaque from treated areas

  • Reaches areas traditional flossing might miss

  • More comfortable for many patients

iStock-1916590329.jpg

Diet and Lifestyle Considerations

Food and Drinks to Limit

​

  • Sugary snacks and beverages

  • Acidic foods and drinks like soda, citrus or wine

  • Hard candies and sticky foods

  • Avoid chewing ice

  • Coffee and tea can stain teeth

Habits to Avoid

​

  • Smoking and tobacco use

  • Using teeth as tools to open packages

  • Nail biting

  • Teeth grinding 

  • Sports or activities without proper mouth protection

Remember, prevention is almost always easier and less costly than treatment. Our team at Prairie Dental is here to support your journey to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

bottom of page