Your Seattle dentists at Amato Dental Group know you want a healthy mouth including a sparkling smile and white teeth. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, is also a step toward ensuring overall health. The American Dental Association recommends brushing teeth for at least two minutes two times a day. Use a toothbrush with soft rounded bristles for less abrasion to enamel and gums. Toss your tooth brush and replace it with a new one after about 3-4 months or after an illness.

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Consider using an electric toothbrush, we like Sonicare; since they fight plaque and gum disease better than brushing by hand. Electric brush heads should be replaced at the same rate as manual toothbrushes. The timer will ensure you are brushing long enough. Daimond-Clean1-750x400

After brushing, use dental floss to remove lingering bits of food and plaque. Wrap floss around each side of the tooth and move it up and down in a scraping motion. When you're dining out or don't have a toothbrush handy, at the very least rinse your mouth with water after eating. Discreetly wipe your teeth with a napkin. Chewing sugarless gum promotes production of saliva, which acts like a natural mouthwash. Remember to follow a healthy diet including whole grains, vegetables and calcium rich foods. Ditch the sugary treats, juices and sodas, and avoid acidic and sticky foods.

Twice-yearly cleanings by your dental hygienist is recommend at Amato Dental Group. People who have an aggressive response to bacteria and develop plaque easily could benefit from a professional cleaning every two to three months. Call our office today at 206-626-5400 to schedule your routine dental exam and cleaning with Drs. LeCuyer, Amato and Guerrero. LeCuyer & Amato Dentistry is conveniently located on Capitol Hill in Seattle.