Healthy Mill Creek Teeth Start with Great Dental Care from Dr. Brian Rutherford

You love that feeling your mouth has right after a professional dental cleaning, don’t you? You aren’t alone. Maintaining oral health has been a human concern for all of recorded history – and maybe even before! The first recorded toothbrushes were sticks sometimes chewed at the end to create a brushy texture and the first recorded (and actually effective) toothpaste was created by the Egyptians of salt, mint and dried iris flowers. Now, in modern cultures, we use Fluoridated toothpaste combined with professional dental cleanings to keep our teeth clean, bright and healthy. Regular cleanings by your dentist are crucial for maintaining good health, but in between, proper brushing can clear away bacteria and keep your teeth bright and fresh. One important detail that most people overlook is that when they brush can be just as important as the brushing itself. Everyone thinks that brushing immediately after meals is the best plan, but if you have consumed high-acid food or drinks, like wine, coffee, citrus fruits, and soft drinks, it is much better to rinse with water to neutralize the acids, and then wait an hour before actually brushing. If you are due for your regular, professional hygiene visit, or if you have any questions about your brushing or flossing technique, call me Dr. Brian Rutherford in Mill Creek at 425.298.3925.