June is National Smile Month!

June may almost be over, but not before we remind you that June is National Smile Month! With summer finally here, it's a good time for Dr. Richard McFarland and our staff to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our office.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health. If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call.

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. McFarland.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

Dr. McFarland, reminding you that regular checkups are important

Dr. Richard McFarland wants to know: is your child brushing his/her teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s fantastic. But, don’t forget that it’s also important for your child to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day. If your child will be visiting the dentist for the first time, it’s important to bring them in after their first tooth comes through, and no later than their first birthday. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment! Have a fantastic weekend!