October is National Dental Hygiene Month. So of course our team is gearing up to celebrate. We love our job, and a big part of it is helping our patients have healthier, happier smiles. We do our best to help you have a great dental visit every time!

You can do your part to make your visits go smoothly too, by following some patient best practices. If you need to make an appointment, call us at 803-653-6331. In the meantime, see our simple tips for having a great visit:

  • Keep Flossing – When food debris builds up between your teeth, it encourages the growth of disease-causing bacteria. You can’t reach this area with a toothbrush. Your hygienist will remove any buildup you’ve been unable to reach at home, but you need to do your part with home flossing. We know flossing can be a challenge. Ask your hygienist to show you the proper technique. We can also recommend flossing aids. 
  • See Us Regularly – Your dentist typically recommends getting an exam and cleaning every six months. That allows us to remove damaging plaque and tartar from your teeth. With this frequency, it’s generally easy to keep your cleanings effective and comfortable. When you skip regular visits, your cleanings will take longer and may involve more scraping. 
  • Keep a List – Many of us keep a grocery list of items we need to pick up the next time we go to the store. Similarly, it’s a good idea to keep track of any dental issues you want to ask us about. Otherwise, you risk forgetting about them during your appointment. Hearing about your smile goals and challenges helps us create the best treatment plans for you. 
  • Open Wide – Keeping your mouth open wide makes it easier for us to clean your teeth and spot any dental issues that may need to be addressed. We know you may need occasional breaks to give your mouth a rest. But try to keep your mouth open as wide as you can, for as long as you can. 
  • Take Our Recommendations Seriously – Your hygienist is often the first person to notice signs of trouble. If we tell you to floss more often or cut down on sugary drinks, it’s because we want you to avoid problems and have a better smile. If you have any questions about our recommendations, just ask. We’re happy to explain the reasons for our advice and offer tips when needed.

Want to have a great dental visit? Call Blythewood Village Dentistry today at 803-653-6331 to schedule an appointment in Blythewood, SC. You can also request an appointment online.