Caring for your teeth the right way

Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but only if you put in the time and effort to protect them from damage and take care of them. Cavities, periodontal disease, and other conditions can cause harm to the smile, but with proper care, many patients can keep these problems from becoming a serious issue.

If you are interested in learning about ways to care for the smile, Dr. Steven E. Holbrook of Albuquerque, NM can help by educating patients on ways to care for the smile—the right way! 

• Brushing – brushing is the best way to remove food particles that may develop into plaque, acid, and cavities. Patients need to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and hold it at an angle of 45 degrees. This allows the brush to cover the teeth and gumline. Using a gentle up-and-down, left-to-right motion, brush the teeth with a fluoride toothpaste after every meal. Don’t forget the roof of your mouth and your tongue!
• Flossing – food particles can become trapped between the teeth, especially in patients who have misalignment of the dental arch. Flossing should be done at least once a day. Floss should be guided between the teeth and used in a C-motion around each tooth to ensure a thorough job.
• Lifestyle habits – in addition to brushing and flossing, patients need to make note of their lifestyle habits and their effect on their smiles. This includes the consumption of alcohol and high sugar foods, or the use of tobacco products, either chewing tobacco or cigarette smoking. These can impact one’s smile and leave them at a much higher risk of developing periodontal disease or tooth decay. Tobacco use is also highly corelated with the risk of oral cancers.
• Routine dental visits – visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and evaluation is also an integral part of good oral health habits and preventative care.

Educate yourself on taking care of the smile 

There’s a lot to learn from Dr. Steven E. Holbrook and his dental team. If you reside in Albuquerque, NM or any of the surrounding communities and want to speak to our providers about your oral healthcare needs, book a consultation visit by calling (505) 881-1159 and request an appointment at 8228 Louisiana Boulevard, NE Suite C.