Life Smiles Dental Care is OPEN

Life Smiles Dental Care is OPEN to help you with your routine care. In response to the spread of COVID-19, to keep our communities safe we are taking numerous precautions. We are here to help you at Life Smiles Dental Care with all your dental needs. You may either call (602) 786-5484 or contact us through Virtual Consultation to book an appointment.

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Team Life Smiles Dental

We now offer Telehealth. Book a Virtual Consultation

New Patients: (602) 786-5484

Existing Patients: (602) 404-7266

4611 E Shea Blvd, Ste 250
Phoenix , AZ 85028 | Direction

Tips for brushing and flossing your teeth

Tips For Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth in Phoenix AZ Area

When it comes to brushing and flossing your teeth, most people know they should brush twice per day and floss daily. However, many people have never been taught the proper technique, leaving them susceptible to the buildup of disease-causing plaque and tartar. Read on for tips from the Life Smiles Dental Care team in Phoenix, Arizona, on how to make the most out of your daily brushing and flossing routine.

Use the right tools 

When it comes to toothbrushes and toothpaste, not all are created equal! Look for a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval. Many patients ask us whether a manual or electric toothbrush is better, and the answer is that it depends on your personal preference and technique! Some patients prefer a manual toothbrush due to cost or other factors, whereas others can benefit from the thorough cleaning abilities of an electric toothbrush. The key is to find a toothbrush that enables you to reach all surfaces of your teeth easily and effectively.

When it comes to flossing, there are many different types of interdental cleaners, such as single-use flossers, water flossers, and traditional string floss. Like toothbrushes, the most important factor in determining which one you are most likely to use and stick to a daily flossing routine.

Replace your toothbrush regularly

As toothbrushes begin to wear down, typically every three months, the bristles become less effective at removing surface debris and plaque. Whether you are using a manual or electric toothbrush, be sure to replace the toothbrush or head regularly.

Check your brushing technique

When you are brushing your teeth, it is best to follow these guidelines to ensure you have thoroughly cleaned your teeth of all food and plaque:

  • Place the brush at a 45-degree angle from the gum line, using short circular motions as well as back-and-forth motions to cover all surfaces of each tooth.
  • Brush for a full two minutes. Some electric toothbrushes have built-in timers, or you may choose to use a timer to help ensure you’re brushing the full two minutes.
  • Some patients find it helpful to work in quadrants. For example, start in the lower right-hand corner of your mouth and work your way towards the front, then move to the lower left-hand corner. After one minute on the bottom, move to the top and repeat.
We are here to help Call us at: New Patients (602) 786-5484 and Existing Patients (602) 404-7266 or request an appointment

Your partners in oral health

The Life Smiles Dental Care team is always happy to answer any questions you have about your daily oral hygiene routine. To schedule your appointment at our Phoenix, AZ practice, call (602) 786-5484 today!

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Dr. Paul Nielson, DDS, MAGD earned a zoology degree from Brigham Young University before completing dental studies at University of Washington, Seattle. He has practiced dentistry for over a decade, and has followed continuing education to exceed the state’s licensing requirements. He’s a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry and holds membership in many professional associations. He’s especially interested in implant, cosmetic and sedation dentistry; and full mouth rehabilitation.
Dr. Timothy Schmidt, DMD, FAGD studied in Utah and Oregon, before serving at University of Washington School of Dentistry as an affiliate instructor. Then he returned to Arizona to serve his local community. As a member of several prestigious dental organizations, he aims to provide comfortable treatments delivering natural-looking and long-lasting results. He aims to raise dental healthcare standards through ongoing education, new technologies and by listening to patients’ concerns.
Dr. Jared Bishop earned his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University in Utah, after which he completed his dental school training at Midwestern University in Glendale. Having completed a 1 year residency, Dr. Bishop was also honored to practice dentistry in the U.S. Army for 5 years. As a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Arizona Dental Association, Dr. Bishop keeps up with current dental technology, techniques, and materials to provide his patients with the highest standard of care.

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