Dental floss clears food and plaque from between teeth and under the gumline. If you don’t floss, plaque will harden into tartar, which forms wedges and widens the space between teeth and gums, causing pockets. Over time, gums recede and teeth loosen.

Mouthwashes made for cavity protection, sensitivity, and fresh breath may help when used with regular brushing and flossing – but not in replacement of them.

Visit your Kellyville Ridge dentist if you have any of these problems or if your child is having trouble chewing or complaining of pain:

• Mouth sores
• Jaw pain
• Redness
• Swollen face or gums
• Tooth sensitivity
• Broken teeth
• Dry mouth
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

Getting checked out immediately prevents more serious problems and infections.

Fluoride helps strengthen teeth and prevents decay. Kids should use fluoride-containing toothpaste for brushing, taking care not to swallow it. Adults can also benefit from using fluoride to protect their teeth.

Sealants protect teeth against cavities that can form in their natural tiny holes and cracks. Kids aged 6 to 12 benefit from having sealants painted and hardened on the chewing surfaces of the molars. Adults can also get sealants to protect teeth that don’t have fillings.

Dentists or dental assistants apply sealants during an office visit, and it’s painless. They last around 2-4 years.

Yes, sweets and acidic foods, like candy and soda, can stick to the teeth and lead to cavities. Smoking and chewing tobacco products can cause oral cancer and gum disease.

While teeth are durable enough to chew ice and tear objects, this can break teeth and stress the jaws. Clenching or grinding down on teeth when you’re stressed may damage them.

Nail-biting is another bad habit. It pulls the jaw out of position and changes how the teeth fit together.