Oral hygiene

Overview
• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner because decay causing bacteria still lingers between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
• Ask your dentist about dental sealants, a protective plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Children’s toothbrushes often need replacing more frequently than adults because they can wear out sooner.

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Routine Prophylaxis-cleanings
This should be done at 6-month intervals and more frequently if periodontal disease is a problem. At Pear Tree Dental we will help you keep track of your appointments and call a day in advance to remind you.

Oral Hygiene Instruction
Hygiene instruction is started with our young patients as early as three years old, or as soon as children are ready to take charge of their own home dental care. For adults we offer special care instructions when improvement is necessary.
Fluoride Applications — These treatments are beneficial in preventing tooth decay especially in children and should be done routinely, generally with a 6-month check-up.

Sealants
These are used on children’s permanent teeth to prevent decay and recommended when necessary.

Desensitizing
Often used when teeth are sensitive to cold and/or sweets. We can recommend various methods of desensitizing teeth and will identify the specific treatment we feel is best for your particular problem.