Preventative Dentistry

Preventive dental care is worthwhile throughout your life, no matter what your age may be. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with our office, you can help keep your smile bright and healthy for many years to come.

How To Prevent Cavities/Tooth Decay

Here are a few simple ways you can prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities:

Tooth Brushing

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue; this will remove any extra plaque-causing food particles, and help keep your breath fresh!

Our practice prefers the Braun Electric Tooth Brush as it removes plaque and food particles best by far!

Flossing

Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

Healthy Lifestyle

Eat a balanced diet, and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, or fruit can help keep your smile healthy.

Regular Teeth Cleaning

Remember to schedule regular checkups with us every six months for a professional teeth cleaning. At your appointment, ask Dr. Walk or Dr. Bamel about dental sealants. Dental sealants is protective plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. This is a common area where decay often begins.

Protective Mouth guards

If you play sports, be sure to ask us about special mouth guards designed to protect your smile.

How to brush your teeth

Step 1: Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.

Step 2: Brush gently in a circular motion.

Step 3: Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.

Step 4: Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.

How to Floss Your Teeth

Step 1: Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and the other finger takes it up as the floss is used.

Step 2: Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.

Step 3: Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.

Step 4: Slide the floss up and down, and repeat for each tooth.

Schedule a Consultation

If it’s been six months since your last dental checkup, then it’s time to contact our practice and schedule your next appointment! Call our office at 617-965-7673 to schedule a dental cleaning with Dr. Walk or Dr. Bamel.