maple grove Area oral health

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Keeping Your Mouth and Teeth Healthy

Good oral health starts with taking good care of your mouth and teeth. Brushing and flossing your teeth every day and visiting your dentist regularly can help you maintain a healthy mouth and teeth for your entire life. Some habits we recommend here at Reflections Dental in Maple Grove are: 

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss your teeth at least once a day.
  • Don't smoke or chew tobacco.
  • Ask your doctor if your medicines have side effects that might damage your teeth. (For example, some medicines may cause you to have a dry mouth.)
  • Children under 2 years of age shouldn't use toothpaste. Instead, use water to brush your child's teeth.
  • Don't let your baby go to sleep with a bottle. This can leave milk or juice sitting on the teeth and cause cavities that are known as "baby-bottle tooth decay."
  • Look inside your mouth regularly for sores that don't heal, irritated gums or other changes.
  • See your dentist every 6 months for regular check-ups and cleanings.
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How to Brush & Floss

Brushing your teeth can help remove plaque and debris from your teeth while preventing gum disease and cavities. Some considerations when brushing are: 

  • Soft nylon bristles are recommended.
  • Replace your brush every 3-4 months.
  • Floss before you brush to break up plaque and food particles in hard to reach areas for your soft bristle brush.
  • Use circular motion instead of sideways--this allows you to cover the surface of your teeth while not agitating your gums.
  • Rinse toothbrush and store uncovered and upright to keep bacteria from growing while not in use.
  • Brush for three minutes, spending 10-15 seconds on each section of your mouth.
  • Follow the curve of your teeth gently.