Assure A Smile Holistic Dentistry
Ask Dr. Ted
How often should I see the dentist for regular checkups and cleaning?
At Assure A Smile, we recommend children begin seeing a dentist as early as age three, or as soon as they are comfortable chatting with a dentist. We also believe that an annual checkup and teeth cleaning two times per year are good ideas, even for kids.
What size toothbrush should I use?
There are several sizes of toothbrushes on the market, including brushes for infants, toddlers and older children. Choose a brush size that is comfortable to use, and which allows you to reach all of your teeth. Parents should help younger children brush their teeth until they are old enough to brush on their own. Make sure your toothbrush has soft bristles. It is not important how “hard” your brush, but rather how long you brush – for at last two minutes, twice per day.
How often should I brush my teeth?
Brushing two times per day is a best. This will help clean away extra food particles and bacteria, which can lead to plaque, tooth decay and cavities. If you cannot brush your teeth on your own, ask your parents to help you.
Is fluoride safe?
At Assure A Smile, we promote clean living and clean eating. This includes avoiding unnecessary chemicals which may be unhealthy or unsafe. We believe that fluoride contains toxins which may cause problems in children and adults, and we do not recommend its use. Instead, we promote healthy living, exercise, healthy eating including whole foods, fruits and vegetables, holistic life choices, regular brushing and flossing, and regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings. For brushing, we recommend a natural, fluoride-free toothpaste. You can even make your own. Just combine 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda with cup of coconut oil. (Optionally, you can add a little peppermint oil or stevia.)
Is chewing gum a good idea?
Sadly, it is not. Sugary chewing gum can be bad for your dental health because the sugar can lead to tooth decay. Sugar-free gum lacks the sugar, but it usually contains other chemicals (or even plastic). Some of these chemicals may be bad for you. At Assure A Smile, we recommend avoiding overly processed foods and chemicals when possible. What should you do if you just can’t stay away from chewing gum? Consider a natural alternative. There are some newer brands of chewing gum on the market which contain natural ingredients and fewer chemicals. Or simply choose nuts, carrots, parsley, licorice root or ginger to chew on.
What foods keep my mouth clean and safe?
The best foods are healthy foods. We recommend a balanced, nutritious diet – including fresh fruits and vegetables. Stay away from candy or cookies, except as an occasional treat. Added sugar in your diet increases your chances for cavities. Avoid chemicals or processed foods. Drink water or other non-sugary drinks. Healthy snacks include whole foods, fruits and vegetables, like apples, carrots, nuts, bananas, oranges, grapes, celery, tomato and cucumber slices. Have you ever tried kale chips? Yummy!
As a holistic dentistry, Assure A Smile is dedicated to nutritional education for better oral health and total body wellness.
For over 28 years, Assure A Smile has been the leading dental care provider to all of South Florida. Our holistic dentistry is led by Dr. Ted Herrmann and based in Miami, Florida. Assure A Smile’s mission is to ensure healthy teeth and gums for life!
Assure A Smile is located at 9220 SW 72nd Street, Suite 205 Miami, FL 33173.
For more information call 305.274.0047 or visit assureasmile.com