Did you have a great New Year’s Eve? We certainly did, and now that 2017 is behind us, we can focus on 2018. In the coming year, you can take steps to help you enjoy a healthier (and more beautiful) smile. Make 2018 the year you enjoy your healthiest smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Improving Oral Health
Question: How often should I have my teeth cleaned and examined?
Answer: You should ideally see us for a checkup and cleaning every six months. During these visits, we will examine your smile, looking at your teeth, gums, jaw joints, and oral tissues for any signs of developing problems, which can allow us to treat them before they progress. We will also clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar, which limits your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
Question: Am I brushing properly?
Answer: To brush properly, each session should last no less than two minutes and occur twice a day, once when you wake and again before going to bed. You should use a toothbrush with soft bristles, to reduce the risk of damaging your enamel.
Question: What’s so great about flossing?
Answer: Flossing removes the bits of food stuck between your teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing is essential for safeguarding your smile against gingivitis and gum disease. You should floss every night before going to bed.
Question: Should I alter what I eat and drink?
Answer: For a healthier smile, we suggest cutting back on snacks and foods high in sugar and other starches. These can promote tooth decay as harmful bacteria break down the sugary food particles left on and between your teeth. We also urge patients to drink more water instead of soda, energy drinks, sports drinks, and other beverages high in sugar and acid.
Do You Have Questions?
At Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, we can help you take steps to improve your oral health. We’ve proudly served our patients in Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
