Healthy Teeth Habits Dental Hygienists Swear by Lisa Esposito

"Go ahead and rinse." You're a captive audience in the dental chair, getting a mouthful of good advice as the suction tube gurgles and your teeth get a much-needed cleaning. 

"Swish and spit." As the blood from your puffy gums oozes down the mini-sink bowl, the dental hygienist explains how to improve your brushing and flossing routine. By the time you've replaced the cup properly so it refills with water, you've lost the moment to respond. The tightly gloved hand is back in your mouth, deftly swirling, probing and scraping with shining instruments. 

​"Let me know if I hit a tender spot." Just when you think one side is done, the slender dental pick doubles back to the trouble area. 

"How often do you floss?" Then: "Hmm, this might be a cavity." You listen uneasily, trying at all costs to avoid the gritty polishing paste with your tongue. What other choice do you have – jump out of the chair and flee, the paper dribble bib flapping from your neck?

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