Good Habits at Home Lay the Foundation

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At Corkern Family Dental, we see the benefits of strong home care every day. Patients who maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine often have healthier gums, fewer cavities, and need less extensive treatments down the line. Whether you want to avoid tooth extractions, keep your smile bright between professional whitening visits, or simply protect your long-term health, what you do daily matters most.

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Brush Correctly — It Makes a Big Difference

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You’ve probably heard “brush twice a day,” but technique matters just as much:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect enamel and gums.

• Angle toward the gumline and use gentle, circular motions.

• Spend two minutes each session, covering all surfaces.

• Don’t forget your tongue, where bacteria love to hide.

We often recommend electric toothbrushes for patients prone to plaque buildup or gum issues

— they make thorough cleaning easier.

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Floss (or Clean Between Teeth) Daily

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Brushing alone misses about one-third of tooth surfaces. Flossing removes plaque and trapped food where toothbrush bristles can’t reach, lowering your risk for cavities and gum disease.

If traditional floss is hard for you or your kids, try dental picks or a water flosser. Our team can show you easy techniques to make this step a regular part of your day.

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Choose the Right Rinse for Extra Protection

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• Fluoride rinses help strengthen enamel, especially helpful if you’re cavity-prone or have sensitivity after cosmetic treatments like whitening.
  
• Antibacterial mouthwashes can reduce plaque and support healing after periodontal procedures.

Ask our team which products suit your specific needs.

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Watch Your Diet — Your Teeth Feel It Too

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What you eat impacts your smile more than you might realize:

• Limit frequent snacking and sugary drinks that fuel bacteria.

• Include crunchy fruits and veggies like carrots or apples that help clean teeth naturally.

• Drink plenty of water, which washes away food particles and keeps your mouth hydrated.

Good hydration also supports saliva flow, your body’s natural defense against decay.

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Notice Warning Signs Early

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Even with great home care, problems can develop. Call us if you notice:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing

• New sensitivity to hot or cold

• Persistent bad breath

• Changes in bite or tooth position

Early treatment means simpler solutions — often avoiding complex procedures like implants or oral surgery.

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Don’t Skip Your Regular Dental Visits

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Home care is essential, but professional cleanings remove hardened tartar your toothbrush can’t reach. These visits also allow us to monitor your oral health closely, spotting issues before they escalate.

For patients exploring cosmetic improvements or under the care of an orthodontist in Baton Rouge, regular checkups ensure your smile stays on track.

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Think Beyond Teeth: A Whole-Health Approach

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Strong oral hygiene routines support more than your smile — they also help reduce risks tied to heart disease, diabetes complications, and systemic infections. We’re here to help you keep your mouth — and your body — as healthy as possible.

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Build Better Habits with Us

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Whether you want to maintain a sparkling smile after teeth whitening, protect new dental implants, or keep your family cavity-free, Corkern Family Dental is here to partner with you. Let us show you how small changes at home can lead to big improvements in your dental and overall health.