At Ardent Dental in North Vancouver, our ultimate goal is to help you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Your personal home care plays a crucial role in this, starting with eating balanced meals, reducing the number of snacks you consume, and correctly using various dental aids to control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.
Our team is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to maintain excellent oral health at home, ensuring your smile remains beautiful and healthy for a lifetime. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office at Ardent Dental Lynn Valley Centre.
Tooth Brushing Guidelines
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before bedtime, using a CDA-approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.
Proper Technique:
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
- Gently brush using a small, circular motion, ensuring the bristles touch the gums.
- Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
- Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside of your front teeth.
- Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Electric Toothbrushes:
Highly recommended for efficient plaque removal.
Place the bristles on your gums and teeth and let the brush do its job, covering several teeth at a time.
By following these guidelines, you can maintain excellent oral hygiene and keep your smile healthy.
Flossing
Daily flossing is essential for cleaning between the teeth and under the gum line, preventing plaque buildup. Use 12-16 inches (30-40 cm) of dental floss, wrapping it around your middle fingers with about 2 inches (5 cm) of floss between your hands. Guide the floss with your thumbs and forefingers, gently inserting it between your teeth using a sawing motion. Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and gently move it up and down to clean the sides. If conventional floss is difficult to use, floss holders are recommended.
Rinsing
It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing and after meals if you are unable to brush. If you use an over-the-counter mouth rinse, consult our dentist or dental hygienist to ensure it’s suitable for you.
Other dental aids that may be recommended by our dentist or dental hygienist include:
- Interdental brushes
- Rubber tip stimulators
- Tongue cleaners
- Irrigation devices
- Fluoride treatments
- Medicated rinses