A comprehensive oral hygiene routine and regular visits to the dentist are the keys to a strong, beautiful smile. Nicholas J. Hurley, D.D.S., P.A., and his team are dedicated to providing their Thomasville, NC- area patients with expert general and cosmetic dental care services to help them achieve optimal oral health. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning, you need a root canal to alleviate pain, or you want to try teeth whitening to improve the look of your smile, you can count on receiving knowledgeable and compassionate service from this dentist. Dr. Hurley is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the American Orthodontic Society; he and his staff have made it their mission to use their vast knowledge and experience to educate patients about the importance of oral health.

An oral hygiene routine can be broken down into three basic components: brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Depending on your specific needs, your dentist may recommend additional steps like gum massage, irrigation, or a medicated rinse. The following guidelines offer general advice for developing your oral hygiene routine at home.

Home Care Tips for a Healthy Smile

• Brushing: Use an ADA-certified soft bristle toothbrush and toothpaste. Whether you use an electric or a manual toothbrush is up to you. Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and brush gently in small circles. Make sure that the bristles make contact with your gums for a thorough clean. Be sure to brush the biting surfaces of all of your teeth, as well as the inner and outer surfaces. Use the tip of your toothbrush to clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth. Remember to also brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

• Flossing: Flossing cleans the areas where your toothbrush cannot reach, especially in between the teeth and below the gum line. Keeping these areas clean deters plaque buildup, helping you avoid painful gum and tooth disease. Start with 12 to 16 inches of floss and wrap it around your fingers until there are about two inches left between your hands. The floss should be taut, but not tight around your fingers. Working in a sawing motion, guide the floss between your teeth. Gently move the floss up and down to clean between your teeth and under the gum line. If you have difficulty holding dental floss this way, your dentist may recommend a floss pick or holder.

• Rinsing: It is important to rinse your mouth with water when you are finished brushing to eliminate plaque and toothpaste residue. If you are unable to brush after a meal, rising can also help remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. If you would prefer to use a commercial mouthwash, be sure to speak with your dentist about which products are right for your needs.

Visit Nicholas J. Hurley, D.D.S., P.A. online to learn more about the practice and services available. Appointments can be scheduled using the online contact form or by calling (336) 476-1109.