Your oral health directly affects your general health, and dental conditions such as tooth decay and periodontal disease can lead to problems with your systemic health. The foundation to maintaining a healthy smile for life is your dental hygiene routine, which includes daily personal care as well as regular exams and professional teeth cleanings.
Hayward dentist Dr. Gary G. Fong offers compassionate, comprehensive dental care to patients ages 2 and older. If you or your child is due for a checkup and teeth cleaning, please call 510-582-8727 to schedule your appointment; Dr. Fong is proud to serve patients from the surrounding Castro Valley, San Leandro and Union City, California, areas.
At-Home Dental Hygiene
A good oral hygiene routine includes brushing your teeth at least twice every day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Brushing should be followed with flossing at least once a day. Dental floss or floss picks can help remove food particles from hard-to-reach-spots between the teeth that brushing alone cannot.
After brushing and flossing, some people choose to rinse with an antiseptic, anticavity mouthwash. This can help further flush lingering food particles and leave you with fresh breath.
Regular Checkups and Teeth Cleanings
Regular dental exams about once every six months are also important to your long-term dental health and general health. These checkups allow Dr. Fong to assess your oral health, and detect and treat any problems in their earliest stages.
Your visits are also an opportunity for Dr. Fong to administer a thorough teeth cleaning, which eliminates plaque that daily brushing alone does not remove. Dr. Fong emphasizes preventive dentistry and patient education, and your checkups can provide you and your family with the tools you need to maintain healthy, happy smiles.
Lifestyle Choices
In addition to quality at-home dental hygiene and regular exams, your dental health can be enhanced with positive lifestyle choices.
This includes enjoying a balanced diet; protecting your teeth and mouth if you play sports; and avoiding habits such as smoking, teeth grinding and nail biting.
If it’s time for a dental checkup for you or your child, please contact Dr. Gary G. Fong today. Dr. Fong welcomes patients from the greater Hayward, Castro Valley, San Leandro and Union City, California, areas.
