Oral hygiene education teaches you how to prevent cavities and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Our dentist will guide you on proper brushing and flossing techniques during your initial oral hygiene appointment at Primera Dental. At follow-up visits, we check your progress and review how to clean your teeth at home.

What Is Oral Hygiene?

Oral hygiene means keeping your mouth clean. Brushing and flossing are the basics. Good oral care also includes professional cleanings (called prophylaxis), regular exams, and treating tooth and gum problems early.

What Effect Does Oral Health Have on Your Body?

Ongoing dental problems can affect your daily life. Dental issues can affect how you speak, eat, and drink. Cavities and other problems can also be very painful. Even small things, like yellow teeth, can affect how you feel about your smile.

Some dental problems can be serious. Bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream and may play a role in heart disease, clogged arteries, and other heart problems.

Tips for Good Oral Hygiene

• Brush your teeth well twice a day to remove plaque (the sticky film that builds up on teeth).

• Clean between your teeth every day with floss, small between-teeth brushes, floss picks, or a water flosser. Don't skip any teeth.

• Use fluoride-containing toothpaste or mouthwash.

• Even if you wear dentures or don't have any natural teeth, you should see your dentist at least once a year.

• Do not use any tobacco products. If you smoke, you should stop.

• Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages.

• If you have diabetes, try to keep it under control. This can help lower your risk of problems like gum disease.

• If a medicine gives you dry mouth, ask your doctor about a different one that may not. If dry mouth continues, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid smoking and alcohol.

• If you notice sudden changes in taste or smell, consult your doctor or a dentist.

Insurance & Financing Options

Primera Dental accepts Medi-Cal, and we also offer flexible payment plans through Cherry to help make oral hygiene education and preventive visits fit comfortably within your budget. Contact our office and our team will be happy to review your coverage and payment options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I schedule an oral hygiene visit?

Most patients benefit from a checkup and cleaning every six months, though our dentist may recommend more frequent visits depending on your oral health needs.

What's the right way to brush my teeth?

Brush gently in small circular motions for two minutes, twice a day, using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste, making sure to reach the gumline and back teeth.

Is flossing really necessary?

Yes. Flossing removes plaque and food from between teeth where a toothbrush can't reach. This helps prevent cavities and gum disease.

Does Primera Dental accept Medi-Cal for preventive visits?

Yes, we accept Medi-Cal and also offer Cherry payment plans to help make treatment affordable.

Do you serve patients outside of Lynwood?

Yes, we welcome patients from Lynwood, South Gate, Compton, Paramount, Downey, Bell, Bell Gardens, Huntington Park, Cudahy, and surrounding communities.