Biannual visits are necessary so that we can professionally clean your teeth and screen you for any signs of oral cancer. While many patients think that brushing and flossing on their own is sufficient, there are areas of your mouth that are hard to reach or often overlooked that we can address with our special tools.

We’ll also let you know of any pointers or recommendations that we have regarding your oral care. Biannual visits are viewed as preventative in nature. During these appointments, we’ll examine your oral health, administer any necessary diagnostic tests, and discuss any problems that may come up.

We’ll also look for any abscesses or areas that could indicate oral cancer. If the disease is caught early on, oral cancer treatment has a much greater chance of a successful outcome.

In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals, you’ll want to schedule biannual visits at our Pembroke Pines location for professional cleanings and checkups. It’s essential to follow a few recommendations to prevent cavities, including:

• Use oral care products containing fluoride
• Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages
• Eat tooth-healthy foods such as fruit, vegetables, yogurt, and cheese
• Ask about dental sealants — especially for children

When you’re trying to get your kids to brush their teeth, offering reasons why it’s important may not be enough. We suggest trying to make it fun by turning it into a game. If you need any further suggestions, ask one of our knowledgeable staff members and we’ll be happy to offer some friendly advice.

Children tend to follow your lead, so it’s important to set a good example by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. They’ll need physical guidance until they’ve developed the motor skills to do it on their own. It’s especially important to brush your teeth before bed to rid your mouth of harmful bacteria that lead to plaque buildup.

If you chip, break, or knock out a tooth, stay calm and contact our office by calling (954) 437-9288. We’ll be sure to see you at your earliest convenience and provide you with detailed information on what to do next.

In the meantime, you’ll want to follow a few simple instructions for the best possible outcome, including:

• Rinse your tooth to remove dirt and debris
• Handle your tooth by its crown, not the roots
• Keep your tooth, or its remnants, in a protective container with milk or another liquid to prevent the roots from drying out
• Bite down on gauze to stop the bleeding

It’s vital to schedule an appointment immediately to improve the chances of successful re-implantation. In the event that your tooth is unsalvageable, we may suggest a dental implant, crown, or bridge to restore your smile.