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Dr. Nicholas Maniatis, DMD 360-697-3331

19365 7th Ave Suite 110, Poulsbo, WA 98370

Dr. Nicholas Maniatis, DMD 360-697-3331
19365 7th Ave Suite 110, Poulsbo, WA 98370

Preventive Care

Preventive dental care is important throughout your life, no matter your age. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with your dentist, you can help keep your smile bright and healthy for many years to come.

Dental hygienist performing preventive care cleaning at Poulsbo Village Dental

Here are a few simple ways that you can prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue; this will remove any extra plaque-causing food particles, and help keep your breath fresh!
  • Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
  • Eat a balanced diet, and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, or fruit can help keep your smile healthy.
  • Remember to schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months for a professional teeth cleaning.
  • Ask your dentist about dental sealants, protective plastic coatings that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
  • If you play sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouthguards designed to protect your smile.

If it’s been six months since your last dental checkup, then it’s time to contact our practice and schedule your next appointment!

Printable Brushing & Flossing Instructions

Click Here

Brushing Instructions

Brushing step 1 – Place toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum
Brushing: Step 1

Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.

Brushing step 2 – Brush gently in a circular motion
Brushing: Step 2

Brush gently in a circular motion.

Brushing step 3 – Brush outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth
Brushing: Step 3

Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.

Brushing step 4 – Use brush tip for inner surface of front teeth
Brushing: Step 4

Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.

Flossing Instructions

Flossing step 1 – Wind 18 inches of floss around fingers
Flossing: Step 1

Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and the other finger takes it up as the floss is used.

Flossing step 2 – Guide one inch of floss between teeth using thumbs and forefingers
Flossing: Step 2

Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.

Flossing step 3 – Curve floss into a C-shape and slide gently beneath gums
Flossing: Step 3

Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.

Flossing step 4 – Slide floss up and down, repeating for each tooth
Flossing: Step 4

Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.