Maintaining a healthy smile depends on what happens between your visits with us. Good home care habits can be established by anyone committed to carving out a few minutes each day. Like regular exercise, consistency is the key to building a healthy habit. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing once a day are the standard for ideal home care.

With so many products on the market today, it can be confusing to sort it out alone. Your hygienist can help you narrow down the endless options and form a home care plan that fits your personal needs. Will an electric toothbrush help you keep your mouth cleaner between professional visits? Based on your unique chemistry, would a prescription toothpaste help reduce plaque? Many factors fit into a plan to maximize the time and effort you put into keeping your smile healthy.

Some patients considered high-risk for dental problems benefit from even more customized routines. Simple, inexpensive substitutions can dramatically reduce the risk and symptoms of periodontal disease. For example, Xylitol, when used in the right dosages, can minimiz e cavities in children and adults.