Dental Hygiene

What Is Dental Hygiene?  

Dental hygiene in Denver, CO, is all about maintaining the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth to prevent oral health problems like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. It combines professional care provided by dentists and routine practices you follow at home.  

Dental hygiene includes regular brushing, flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and professional check-ups and cleanings. These habits help reduce plaque buildup, stave off harmful bacteria, and promote strong, healthy teeth and gums.  

Why Is Dental Hygiene Important?  

Maintaining good dental hygiene goes beyond brightening your smile. It’s essential for your overall health and well-being. Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and even respiratory infections.  

Here are some key benefits of prioritizing dental hygiene in Denver:  

• Prevents Tooth Decay: Brushing and flossing remove food particles and plaque that lead to cavities.
• Reduces the Risk of Gum Disease: Professional cleanings and good habits keep harmful bacteria at bay.
• Improves Confidence: A clean, well-maintained smile helps boost self-esteem.  
• Prevents Bad Breath: Regular cleaning reduces bacteria responsible for unpleasant odors.  
• Supports Overall Health: Healthy teeth and gums can reduce the risk of broader health complications.  

By making dental hygiene part of your lifestyle, you’re taking a step toward better health in the short and long term.  

The Professional Dental Cleaning Process at Ascent Dental  

At Ascent Dental, we believe in thorough and gentle care. When you visit us for your dental cleaning, here’s what you can expect during the process:

Examination  

Before the cleaning begins, our hygienist or Dr. Johnston will carefully examine your mouth, using mirrors and tools to check your gums, teeth, and other areas. We look for signs of plaque buildup, inflammation, or decay and tailor our cleaning process to your needs.  

Plaque and Tartar Removal  

Our hygienist uses a scaler to remove plaque and tartar buildup from around your gum line and between your teeth. This essential step prevents bacteria from causing further damage.  

Professional Brushing  

Once your teeth are tartar-free, we use a high-powered electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste to give your teeth an even deeper clean. This step polishes your teeth, leaving them smooth and refreshed.  

Flossing  

Next, we expertly floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris that brushing may have missed. Plus, it allows us to examine your flossing habits and recommend necessary adjustments.  

Final Rinse  

We round out your cleaning with a fluoride rinse to eliminate lingering particles and strengthen your enamel.  

Fluoride Treatment (Optional)  

For patients who want extra protection from cavities, fluoride treatments are available as a final step to reinforce your teeth before you leave.  

Dental Hygiene at Home  

Your daily efforts at home are as important as your visits to our office. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, follow these practical tips for all ages:

Adult Dental Hygiene Tips  

1. Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush for two minutes, covering all surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline.  
2. Floss Daily: Don’t take advantage of this step! Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth where brushes can’t reach.  
3. Rinse with Mouthwash: Use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash to kill germs, prevent bad breath, and reduce plaque buildup.  
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away leftover food particles and hydrate your mouth.  
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule cleanings and exams twice a year to catch and address potential issues early.  

Children’s Dental Hygiene Tips  

1. Start Early: Begin brushing when the first tooth appears, using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and water or toddler-safe toothpaste.  
2. Supervise Brushing: Help your child brush until they can effectively clean their teeth independently (usually around age 6-8).  
3. Make Flossing Fun: Use colorful floss picks or flossers to engage the habit more.  
4. Limit Sugary Snacks: Encourage snacks like fresh fruits and vegetables to protect young, developing teeth.  
5. Reward Healthy Habits: Create a reward chart to motivate consistency in brushing and flossing routines.  

Dental Hygiene in Denver

Your smile deserves exceptional care, and at Ascent Dental, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. A clean, healthy smile isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about protecting your overall health and well-being.  

Whether it’s time for your next cleaning or you need guidance on perfecting your at-home routine, our team at Ascent Dental is ready to help. Book your appointment today and take the next step toward a brighter, healthier smile.