July 5, 2018
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Strive for healthy, not perfect. When it comes to your teeth, it’s always best to keep health as the top priority. Everyone’s smile is unique, but not everyone’s teeth are healthy.
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Self-care at home is extremely important. It’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a checkup/cleaning. The rest is left up to you! While it’s possible for cavities or other issues to arise, it’s up to you to maintain your teeth. Create a hygiene routine that works for you and stick to it, preferably one that includes brushing for two to three minutes twice a day after meals and flossing at least once a day.
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Alignment is more important than having straight teeth. If you’re experiencing difficulty in chewing if you’ve frequently bitten your lips or cheeks if there is crowding or too much space between your teeth if you’re clenching or grinding if your teeth are protruding… All of these are signs that your teeth aren’t properly aligned. While braces and other forms of orthodontic treatment can give you straight, evenly spaced teeth, they are most often used to help with alignment.
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Don’t feel insecure about your gap. Pay no attention to what’s “fashionable” or how society feels in regards to the gap in your teeth. As long as your teeth are properly aligned, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be proud of the smile you have been given. After all, it makes you the beautiful person that you are.
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It’s part of our job to check your gums. When attending your cleaning/checkup, you may not always feel comfortable with us thoroughly inspecting your gums. Tenderness and bleeding can both occur in some patients. We promise we aren’t trying to make your visit terrible! We are making sure all is as it should be and that you leave our office in a healthy manner. Why you ask? Because gum disease affects almost half of adults over age 30 in America and it’s our job to make sure you aren’t one of them.
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Don’t over-whiten your smile. It’s tempting to obtain that “Hollywood-esque” smile by using whitening toothpaste, whitening mouthwash, whitening strips, etc. Don’t go overboard in seeking bright and shiny teeth. If used too frequently, you can endanger your teeth by making them extra sensitive, irritating the gums, and/or exposing them to chemical burns. Whitening excessively can also wear down tooth enamel, causing decay.