Both tooth decay and gum disease pervade the American population. Good oral hygiene habits, however, can dramatically improve your dental health. In East Lansing, MI, your dentist, Dr. Thomas Faiver, and his team help their patients develop and maintain an effective routine. It combines both at-home and in-office habits.

Brushing

Use a soft brush that fits your mouth comfortably. A fluoride toothpaste strengthens tooth enamel, and your systematic, gentle brushing removes the plaque which quickly collects on your teeth and at the gum line. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends you brush twice daily for a full two minutes.

Flossing

Floss once a day. Wind the strand around opposite index fingers, and gently insert it between two teeth. Form a C with the strand, and move it up and down gently. Never snap floss against the gum tissue. Move systematically around your mouth. Then rinse.

Diet

You know what to do. Limit sugar and carbs. Consume four to five servings of fruits and vegetables, and get into the habit of drinking water throughout the day. Limit dark drinks and foods so your teeth stay bright and white.

Mouthwash

Ask Dr. Faiver if an ant-plaque, fluoride, or whitening rinse would benefit your smile.

Don't smoke

Tobacco darkens your tooth enamel, compromises gum tissue, and causes oral cancer. See your primary care physician about a smoking cessation program.

Semi-annual dental visits

These are ADA standards. Your exam with your dentist and cleaning with your hygienist in our East Lansing office will be comfortable and thorough.

Cleaning includes:

• Tooth scaling with ultrasonic instruments and/or hand-held curettes to remove plaque and hard tartar
• Tooth polishing with a low abrasion toothpaste and rotary brush
• X-rays as scheduled to detect hidden decay
• Periodontal probing with a very small metal instrument (gum pockets deeper than three millimeters indicate periodontal disease)

Then Dr. Faiver does your examination, looking for:

• Tooth decay and signs of gum disease
• Proper dental bite
• Signs of oral cancer
• Jaw joint function
• The appearance and condition of your crowns and fillings

Finally, you'll receive your exam findings. Dr. Faiver may recommend changes in your oral hygiene routine at home, tell you if you need any restorative work, and may advise certain cosmetic improvements.

Keep your good habits

Oral hygiene is the mainstay of a healthy, attractive mouth. Dr. Thomas Faiver and his team ask you to keep up with these important habits at home, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. We continue to be available for your dental emergencies. Phone us with any concerns or questions you have: (517) 351-7222.