Dental Care At Home
Our hygienists Lindsey C. and Brandon G. have been collating resources to help you keep your mouth healthy at home until it’s safe for you to come to us again.
Brush 2 minutes at least twice daily. Choose a soft toothbrush or head.
- Video: How to use a Manual Toothbrush
- 45 degree angle towards the gum line. Brush all surfaces!
- Video: How to use an Electric Toothbrush
- Gently hold (don’t push) brush on the surface of each tooth for 2 seconds per surface (front, back, chewing surface)
Clean in between your teeth every day.
- Video: How to Floss
- When using string floss, form a C or U shape around both sides of each tooth. Another option is to use a floss handle.
- Video: How to use a Water Flosser
- Recommended for patients with periodontal disease, to thoroughly clean pockets.
- Video: How to use an Interdental Brush
- A soft pick can also work
What if I have a lot of tartar buildup?
- Do not use an “at-home” dental pick to attempt to remove tartar yourself. Your hygienist has the training to not damage your enamel or gum tissue.
- When we’re allowed to perform non-emergency procedures and when we deem it safe for you to come in for a cleaning, we will let you know. Our hygienists will be able to deal with your tartar.
What if I’m seeing bleeding when I brush or floss?
- You may be brushing too hard. Try using an extra soft toothbrush or electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor. Floss gently every single day.
My gums are swollen and sore. Do I have a dental emergency?
- The CDC’s guidelines to the dental community would consider it an emergency if pain is keeping you up at night, or if you’ve suffered a traumatic injury that made your tooth/teeth fall out. If you’re not sure, give us a call.
It’s not as bad as these symptoms. Is there anything I can do to relieve my discomfort until I can come in for a cleaning?
- Maintain good oral hygiene at home
- Swish with warm salt water up to 4 times daily.
More resources: https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/home-care
