Terry, the Alligator who never smiled!

"Alligators have the prettiest teeth of all", Terry thought. Poor Terry was embarrassed about his teeth. All his friends had shiny white teeth, they smiled all the time, showing off their pearly whites, but Terry had a cavity and didn't know what to do about it? Terry's friends go to the dentist with their parents. Terry felt scared and was unsure what a Dentist would do to him, maybe a Dentist would yell at him, or tell him he could never have sweets ever again! Then one day, a Dentist came to his school and explained the importance of taking care of your teeth. He explained how to brush and floss, and he explained why we get cavities and how important it is to take care of them as soon as possible. The Dentist was very friendly and kind. Terry thought to himself that this Dentist didn't seem scary at all! Terry went home and told his mother he had a cavity, and he wanted to see the dentist very soon! A week later Terry went with his mom to the dentist who took care of his cavity and showed him again how to brush and floss everyday! Terry felt so good about himself and went to school the next day with the biggest smile ever! Terry was never afraid of going to the dentist again! Part of what he learned is shared below. Follow Terry's example and show off your smile just like Terry!

The ADA recommends the following for good oral hygiene:

* Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
* Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay-causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can't reach. This helps remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
* Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
* Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Antimicrobial mouth rinses and toothpastes reduce the bacterial count and stop bacterial activity in dental plaque, which can cause gingivitis, an early, reversible form of periodontal (gum) disease. ADA-Accepted antimicrobial mouth rinses and toothpastes have substantiated these claims by demonstrating significant reductions in plaque and gingivitis. Fluoride mouth rinses help reduce and prevent tooth decay. Clinical studies have demonstrated that use of a fluoride mouth rinse and fluoride toothpaste can provide extra protection against tooth decay over that provided by fluoride toothpaste alone. Fluoride mouth rinse is not recommended for children age six or younger because they may swallow the rinse. Consumers should always check the manufacturer's label for precautions and age recommendations and talk with their dentist about the use of fluoride mouth rinse.

Talk to your dentist about what types of oral care products will be most effective for you. The ADA Seal on a product is your assurance that it has met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness. Look for the ADA Seal on fluoride toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, interdental cleaners, oral irrigators, mouth rinses and other oral hygiene products.

A healthy, attractive smile is important for people in all stages of life. If you would like further information please contact the American Dental Association https://www.ada.org/ada/findadentist/advancedsearch.aspx or feel free to visit our office if you are in the area!

Ventura Dentist - Prime Dental Group, Family, Implant, Cosmetic and General Dentistry caring for Ventura - Dr. Lee is your family dentist, offering cosmetic, implant, and comprehensive restorative dental care for children, teens, and adults. At Prime Dental Group, we strive to create an environment where our patients feel comfortable.

CONTACT US to RECEIVE your COMPLIMENTARY INITIAL CONSULTATION.
We offer convenient office hours to fit your busy schedule. We look forward to meeting you and your family to fulfill your dental needs and desires.
Phone: (805) 644-0600
Web: http://www.primedentalgroup.com/
Email: manager@primedentalgroup.com

Written by Anthony Longoria