Family Dentistry Services
Daily dental hygiene is one of the most important parts of dental care. Our team recommends making brushing and flossing a normal part of your day and encourage you to make these hygiene behaviors a habit. Check out our easy guide below!
The best way to brush your teeth is to position your brush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently move the brush in a circular motion several times using small, gentle strokes without pressing down too hard.
When you’re done cleaning the outside surfaces of all your teeth, follow the same directions while cleaning the inside of the back teeth.
Make sure to also thoroughly clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and biting areas. Don’t forget to gently brush the surrounding gum tissue. Try to watch yourself in the mirror to make sure you clean each surface. After you are done, rinse vigorously to remove any plaque you might have loosened while brushing.
If you have any pain while brushing, or have any questions about how to brush properly, please be sure to call our office.
Periodontal disease usually appears between the teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing is a very effective way to remove plaque from those surfaces.
The following instructions will help you be able to care for your teeth effectively.
Start with a piece of floss (waxed is easier) about 18″ long. Lightly wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand. Wrap the rest of the floss around the middle finger of the other hand.
Gently insert the floss tightly between the teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Bring the floss to the gum line then curve it into a C-shape against one tooth, then slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
Move the floss up and down on the side of one tooth. As the floss becomes soiled, turn from one finger to the other to get a fresh section. Don’t forget the back side of the last tooth on both sides, upper and lower.
When you are done, rinse vigorously with water to remove plaque and food particles. Do not be alarmed if during the first week of flossing your gums bleed or are a little sore. As you floss daily and remove the plaque your gums will heal and the bleeding and soreness should stop.
Sometimes after dental treatment, teeth are sensitive to hot and cold. If the mouth is kept clean, this sensation should not last long. However, if the mouth is not kept clean, the sensitivity will remain and could become more severe. If your teeth are especially sensitive, consult with our team. A medicated toothpaste or mouth rinse made especially for sensitive teeth may be recommended.
There are so many products on the market that choosing the right one can be difficult. Here are some suggestions for selecting dental care products that will work for most patients:
We recommend scheduling dental cleanings and exams every six months for optimal oral health. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits based on your specific needs.
We work with a wide variety of dental insurance providers. Please contact our office or visit our Insurance & Payment page for a full list of accepted plans.
Your first visit typically includes a comprehensive exam, X-rays, and a discussion about your dental health goals. This helps us create a personalized treatment plan for you.
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before bed, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and an ADA-approved toothpaste. For the best results:
Electric toothbrushes are also recommended as they can efficiently remove plaque by simply guiding the brush while it works on multiple teeth at a time.
You should floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gumline, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Follow these steps for effective flossing:
If you find regular floss difficult to use, floss holders are a helpful alternative.
It is generally recommended to schedule dental cleanings and exams every six months. Regular visits help prevent common issues like cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup. They also allow your dentist to catch potential problems early. However, depending on your oral health, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits. Always follow your dentist’s advice based on your individual needs.
No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, our dentists and teams are here to help. We look forward to meeting you and every member of your family and helping you take your first steps to better smiles.
Take some time to learn more about the services we provide at Streamwood Smiles . When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our dental offices in Streamwood.
Our experienced and caring team is dedicated to serving patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and providing top-notch oral health care for the entire family. We strive to make dental visits easy and stress-free for you and your loved ones. Our family-friendly atmosphere ensures that every member of your household feels comfortable and at ease during their dental appointments.
From routine check-ups and cleanings to preventive treatments like dental sealants and fluoride treatments, we prioritize preventive care to maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime. Should any dental concerns arise, our skilled dentists are equipped to deliver a wide range of services, including restorative treatments, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry.
Visit the Patient Center to learn what to expect from your first visit, forms, financial policies, and frequently asked questions!