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Many people are nervous about going to see a dentist, but with modern gentle dentistry, anyone can have a lovely smile. Dr. Soto is one of only a handful of dentists who are licensed to offer advanced IV sedation in his office. This allows him to perform even the most complicated reconstructions and dental procedures while you are in complete comfort. At the office of Dr. Ernie Soto, we understand that maintaining good oral health is invaluable, helping you to live a healthier, happier life. To help you keep your pearly whites, here are 10 things your dentist wants you to do to care for your teeth:

• Brush your teeth twice a day – we’ve all known this from the time we were in school. Remember when they gave you those purple tablets and you had to keep brushing until all the purple was gone?
• Brush longer – if you are not brushing for at least 2 minutes, then you are not brushing long enough. Set a timer if you have to. You can sing the happy birthday song in your head, or hum it as you brush. Singing it all the way through at least three times, helps ensure you are brushing long enough.
• Use a soft bristled brush – the size and shape needs to fit your mouth comfortably while allowing you to reach all areas easily. Replace your toothbrush about every 3 to 4 months, maybe sooner if the bristles show wear.
• Floss regularly – flossing can be a good tool in helping to eliminate bad breath. After all, have you smelled the floss after you were done? Don’t lie, we know you did.
• Go for regular dental check-ups – regular check-ups are needed to treat and prevent cavities, root canals, gum disease, and other dental conditions. While there, your dentist will also screen for any signs of oral cancer.
• Make sure you have a healthy diet – sugars from our diet combines with bacteria in our mouth. These bacteria produce acids that attack tooth enamel and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Limit the amount of sugar laden items like soft drinks and sweets.
• Get rid of your tongue piercing – mouth piercings create a risk for infection if not performed in a sterile environment. An infection, if not caught in time could result in partial removal of your tongue! Even without infection, tongue piercings often chip the front teeth, causing an embarrassing smile and pain.
• Drink plenty of water – hydration is important to the production of saliva that helps protect your teeth against harmful bacteria. If you have chronic dry mouth there may be something more serious going on, do not wait until your next cleaning to tell your dentist. Call now.
• Do rinse after brushing, but don’t rely on it to treat bad breath – if you rinse every time you turn around, you could be masking a serious problem. While rinsing after a stinky lunch is one thing, if you bad breath is persistent, let your dentist know.
• Take your lipstick off before you visit your dentist – as funny as this sounds, it is correct. Dentist’s hate when someone comes in for an exam or work to be done and they have messy lipstick on. It gets everywhere! On the gloves, tools, your teeth. Please do them a favor and don’t wear it. You can always re-apply it when you leave.

If you, or a loved one, would like to know more about sedation dentistry, or any dental topic, please call (954) 368-6264 today or request an appointment online.  Dr. Ernie Soto offers comprehensive dental care, including sedation and reconstructive care. He has the advanced training and gentle touch you need.