At Peak Dental Arts, an Akron and Uniontown dental care office, our dentist, Dr. Craig C. Lanik, DDS, has tips on how you can keep your smile healthy and happy. Taking good care of your teeth and oral hygiene does not only mean visiting your dentist twice a year. Good dental care should happen at home as well, which means brushing at least twice a day, flossing and teaching children how to brush and floss.

Brushing Guide for Daily Dental Care

In an ideal world, everyone would brush their teeth three times a day. At the very least, you should brush twice a day, after you wake up in the morning and before going to bed. Use a toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth. A soft-bristled brush is preferable, as medium or firm bristles can irritate your gums. When brushing, hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and use short strokes.

It's best to use toothpaste that has fluoride in it to prevent cavities. Use only a small amount of toothpaste each time you brush. Aim to brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time. If you have young children, set a timer for them so that they brush for long enough.

Flossing and More Dental Tips

Brushing won't keep your teeth clean enough on its own. Using floss will remove food pieces and plaque wedged between your teeth and along the gums. When you floss, use at least 18 inches. Slide a small amount of the floss between two teeth, rubbing it back and forth. Be gentle when flossing, as you do not want to irritate your gums or cause bleeding.

Family dentistry is essential for keeping the teeth and mouths of your entire family healthy. Make sure to schedule regular check-ups with our dentist to prevent problems such as cavities from occurring. Our office also offers services such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers, which improve the appearance of your teeth.

How do you keep your teeth and mouth healthy?