February Marks National Dental Health Month

At Rad Orthodontics, February is National Children's Dental Health Month, as well as National Dental Health Month, and Dr. Rad and team thought we’d promote good oral hygiene among our patients with a few tips and tricks, courtesy of the American Dental Association.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and insert it between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits and vegetables and avoid crunchy, sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, be sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these drinks create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. If you’re going to drink one of these beverages, don’t sip on it throughout the day. Rather, drink it and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: in addition to seeing our team at Rad Orthodontics during your orthodontic treatment, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months.

National Dental Health Month aims to increase awareness about the importance of our patients' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Rad Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Talkin' fluoride with Rad Orthodontics

Dr. Rad and our team will tell you there are many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment at Rad Orthodontics: You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your appliances from being damaged. But did you know there's another way to keep your teeth sparkling and healthy during your treatment?

Fluoride, which can help with cavity prevention and tooth decay, can also help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth and is found in toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides, however, are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Orthodontists like Dr. Rad use in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing orthodontic procedures.

Fluoride used at Rad Orthodontics is often a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Rad how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Dr. Rad may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for in-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s seal of approval. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

We hope you're having a fantastic Memorial Day weekend!