Are You Keeping Good Oral Hygiene Habits?

At Lakeshore Family Dentistry in White Bear Lake, MN, we know that great teeth and gums don't come naturally—they take time, care, and attention. Here, your dentists, Dr. Scott Kron and Dr. Jason Ross, focus on preventive care as the foundation of oral health—read on to learn why.

Are you keeping good oral hygiene habits?

From infancy on, you have to take care of your mouth. Mom and Dad helped you when you were little, but after that, it becomes your responsibility.

Avoid tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, oral cancer, and more with what you do at home every day. Good oral hygiene improves your overall health, helps you avoid intricate and expensive dental treatments, and allows you to keep your teeth for your entire life.

The American Dental Association (ADA) asks you to follow these safe hygiene practices:

1. Use fluoride toothpaste when you brush your teeth twice a day (for two minutes).
2. Avoid all tobacco products, smoking and chewing tobacco alike.
3. Limit sugary foods and drinks.
4. Floss around your teeth every day to stimulate circulation and to remove plaque and bacteria.
5. Be aware of changes in how your teeth and gums feel and look.

How your White Bear dentist can help

Dr. Kron and Dr. Ross see their patients, both young and old, every six months for a complete examination and hygienic cleaning. X-ray examination reveals any problems below the gum line, and fluoride treatments and plastic sealants protect tooth surfaces from decay.

Also, your dentist checks your mouth for problems such as:

• Jaw joint dysfunction
• Poor dental bite
• Deteriorating restorations (fillings, crowns, veneers)
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Oral cancer

Yes, oral cancer awareness is part of any dental hygiene routine. Your dentist will inspect your soft oral tissues and gently feel the lymph nodes in your neck.

It's your mouth

Please take care of it. We'll do all we can to help. At this time, our office is open for dental emergencies only; so your daily home care is more important than ever. If you have a pressing need or question, please call Lakeshore Family Dentistry in White Bear Lake, MN. We're here to serve you and your family: (651) 429-3348.