Oral Hygiene Basics IN Matteson, IL

Why Oral Hygiene Basics Matter

At Progressive Dental & Associates, we help patients throughout Matteson, IL to stay in excellent oral health. With a focus on preventative care, Dr. Durr takes the time to get to know each of our patients, creating a plan for lifelong oral health. With only one set of permanent adult teeth, it is important to care for them and be proactive in taking the steps to prevent cavities, infections, and gum disease. We recommend that you visit our 60443 dental office for a teeth cleaning twice a year so that we can remove plaque buildup and tartar, keeping your mouth healthy and clean

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Selecting The Right Mouthwash

When you use mouthwash, it is important to be sure that it is sugar-free. We also recommend using mouthwash that contains fluoride since this will help to kill any lingering bacteria while strengthening your teeth. Carry a bottle of mouthwash with you and rinse your mouth with it after meals, drinking a soda, coffee, etc.

As a Matteson, IL dentist office, we understand that it is difficult to brush more than a couple of times per day. Rinsing your mouth, however, is relatively easy, and everyone has time for it. Taking this simple step can help to reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease.

How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

As a Matteson dentist, we know that how you brush your teeth is just as important as how often you brush them. It is important that you use a soft toothbrush that will not irritate your gums or cause the enamel on your teeth to erode. Many people make the mistake of thinking that a hard toothbrush is necessary for keeping teeth clean, but this is not the case. As long as you brush correctly a soft toothbrush will work equally well without damaging your teeth. Be sure to brush your teeth in a circular pattern, starting at the gum line and working your way towards the center of your mouth. This will move food particles, bacteria, and plaque away from your gum line. Brush your teeth in quadrants and be sure to brush each section for at least thirty seconds. While brushing you should apply even pressure but not be too aggressive. You should also use fluoride toothpaste since this will provide additional protection from cavities. We recommend that you brush three times a day – morning, after lunch, and before bed. This will keep your mouth clean without causing irritation from over-brushing. Additionally, be sure to buy a new toothbrush every three months or sooner if your bristles are frayed or your toothbrush is stained or smelling.

Food and Drinks That You Should Avoid

Limit Sugary Beverages

To maintain good oral hygiene, it is important to avoid or limit the consumption of sugary beverages such as soda, juice, and energy drinks. These drinks contain high amounts of sugar that can contribute to tooth decay and cavities.

Reduce Acidic Foods

Acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based dressings can erode tooth enamel over time. It is advisable to consume these foods in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward to help minimize the acid’s impact on your teeth.

Sugary Snacks and Desserts

Candies, cookies, cakes, and other sugary snacks are not only bad for your overall health but also harmful to your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acid that can lead to tooth decay. Opt for healthier snack options like fruits, vegetables, and nuts instead.

Sticky and Chewy Foods

Sticky and chewy foods like caramel, taffy, and gummy candies can cling to your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities. These foods are harder to clean off the tooth surfaces, allowing bacteria to thrive. It’s best to avoid or minimize the consumption of such foods.

Limit Coffee and Tea

Coffee and tea, especially when consumed with added sugar or sweeteners, can stain your teeth and contribute to the buildup of plaque. If you do indulge in these beverages, it’s a good practice to rinse your mouth with water afterward or consider using a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.

Alcohol and Tobacco

Excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, can have severe detrimental effects on your oral hygiene. They increase the risk of gum disease, tooth discoloration, bad breath, and oral cancer.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Professional Dental Care

Dr. Durr plays a vital role in preventing tooth decay by assisting patients in maintaining clean and healthy teeth. Tooth decay typically begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is left on the teeth. The acid produced by these bacteria starts to erode the enamel. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help remove plaque, thereby preventing tooth decay.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene at Home

Brushing your teeth and flossing after meals helps remove food particles and plaque from the teeth. If you don’t have access to a toothbrush, rinsing your mouth with water can help eliminate loose food particles and reduce the amount of sugar on your teeth. A healthy diet is also essential since the food you consume directly affects your teeth and oral health.

Flossing is Essential For Your Teeth and Gums

At Progressive Dental & Associates, we remind our patients that it is critical to floss on a daily basis. If you live in the 60443 area and have not been to the dentist lately, we invite you to schedule an appointment so that we can clean your teeth and remove the plaque and bacteria from hard to reach places. Afterwards, it is up to you to floss on a daily basis to remove food particles and plaque from in between your teeth. If they remain in place, you can develop gum disease which is both uncomfortable and dangerous to your oral and overall health.

Gum disease occurs when plaque forms underneath the gum line and not flossing can lead to this. If you do not particularly enjoy flossing, buy a plastic flossing tool that you can hold and throw away once done. This makes it easier to get the job done.

What You Should Know About Getting a Fluoride Treatment

At Progressive Dental & Associates, we are a family dentist office that uses fluoride on a regular basis. We recommend that all of our youth patients under the age of eighteen have a fluoride treatment, at least once a year. Statistically, these treatments reduce the risk of getting cavities by 30%. This is significant considering that tooth decay is one of the primary reasons children miss days from school. Adults can also benefit from receiving a fluoride treatment and if you would like to find out if it is right for you, call (708) 980-0110 to schedule an appointment. The treatment itself only takes a couple of minutes. The fluoride is applied directly to the teeth. It has no odor or smell and after a few minutes, patients are free to leave. It is one of the easiest ways to prevent cavities.

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Meet Our Doctor

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Robert D. Durr, D.M.D. F.I.C.O.I.

Robert D. Durr, D.M.D.

Dr. Robert D. Durr graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Durr attends countless hours of continuing education at post-doctoral symposiums all over the country every year. Dr. Durr is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology and member of DOCS. Since he began practicing dentistry, he has kept up-to-date on many of the latest products, procedures and dental technology, ensuring that his patients receive the most comprehensive and advanced dental care possible.

Testimonials From Our Patients

We are thrilled to offer exceptional services that exceed expectations!

Bobbie Stewart

October 16, 2024

For over 2 weeks, we have been going back and forth to the emergency room and finally was told it was a dental concern. Once we figure that out, we called several dentists for an emergency appointment because the medical doctor says it must be taken care within 2 days. After calling that morning, we were able to get an appointment that afternoon, immediately. The receptionist schedule the appointment, check my insurance while on the telephone. Her personality and customer care was exceptional. She offered sincere care for the problem and concern. When someone is experience a difficult time when a love one is sick. It can be overwhelming . It was so refreshing to have someone that actually cared. Now we are on the right track to recovery. Thank you soooo much. My family now has a new dentist. Signed, grateful

Leonard Harris Jr (BabyLeonard)

September 25, 2024

Well, I was just there this morning at 10am The dental office called me this morning because my appointment wasn’t until 3:00 PM today they asked me if I could come in earlier at 10 AM and I said YES and I did It is now 4:46pm so need a little more time to see how this cap work out. But thanks for the chance to give feedback need a little more time to come to a conclusion. The dental office was very clean,the dentist himself and the technicians very knowledgeable. Would I refer PROGRESSIVE DENTAL yes I would if you can afford to work. THANKS

Clemmle Mclntosh

September 10, 2024

Staff was very friendly, the Dentist was extremy knowledge and professional. I was very impress and made me feel good about myself. Dr. Dunn assured me that he was going to bring back my smile again. Thanks Progressive! Clemmie McIntosh. I will be spreading the word!

Donna Grant

July 30, 2024

I have been getting dental care from the progressive team for almost 2 years now and I love every minute, I never had to wait, flexible schedule, exceptional customer service from the front to the back. Everyone is so welcoming. It’s life. Family home you’re visiting. I will recommend progressive every time.

Beverly Colar-Credelle

July 18, 2024

It was my second time, within a month, visiting this dental office. The establishment is very clean and well organized. The front desk staff (Sharon and Susan) are friendly and professional. My service, for both visits, was provided by the dental hygienists Ms. Kayla Scott. She was very professional, thorough and gentle. Well, since I’m in this for the long haul, to get back on track with my oral care after my previous dentist abruptly closed his practice in 2022, I’m glad I am very pleased with the service provided at Progressive Dental. I recommend this practice!

Delorise Cunigan

June 27, 2024

Great service and staff! I am always happy with my services and the care that I receive.

Theresa Wright

June 17, 2024

The dental technician was very Nice. I hope she will cleaned my teeth on my next appointment.

Charlotte Bumpers

June 17, 2024

My dentist hygienist was knowledgeable, friendly and mostly patient, since I act like a 5 year old no matter what services are rendered😊

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