Home Care

In Richardson, TX

Your daily routine makes the difference. Dr. Morgan and our hygiene team help Richardson patients build effective home care habits that keep teeth and gums healthy between visits.

Request An Appointment call (972) 231-7104

WHY HOME CARE MATTERS

Maintaining a healthy smile depends on what happens between your visits with us. Professional cleanings every six months are important, but they only account for a few hours per year. The other 8,700+ hours are up to you.

Good home care habits can be established by anyone committed to carving out a few minutes each day. Like regular exercise, consistency is the key to building a healthy habit. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing once a day are the standard for ideal home care.

The patients who maintain excellent oral health throughout their lives are those who make home care a priority. They understand that a few minutes of daily effort prevents hours in the dental chair and thousands of dollars in treatment costs down the road.

Essential Daily Habits

These foundational habits form the basis of good oral health. Master these first, then we can fine-tune your routine based on your specific needs.

Brush Twice Daily

Brush for at least two minutes in the morning and before bed. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay attention to the gum line where plaque accumulates. Consider setting a timer or using an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer to ensure you brush long enough.

Floss Once Daily

Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. This is where cavities and gum disease often start. If traditional floss is difficult, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.

Rinse After Meals

If you can't brush after eating, at least rinse your mouth with water. This helps wash away food particles and neutralizes acids that attack your teeth after meals.

Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

Change your toothbrush or brush head every three months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed. Worn bristles don't clean effectively, and bacteria accumulate on old brushes.

Finding What Works for You

Will an electric toothbrush help you keep your mouth cleaner between professional visits? Would a prescription toothpaste help reduce plaque based on your unique chemistry? Many factors fit into a plan to maximize the time and effort you put into keeping your smile healthy.

During your appointment at Ellem Dental, your hygienist will assess your current home care routine and identify areas for improvement. We'll recommend specific products and techniques based on:

ADVANCED HOME CARE TOOLS

Once you've mastered brushing and flossing, these additional tools can take your home care to the next level.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric and ultrasonic toothbrushes often clean more effectively than manual brushing. They're especially helpful for people with limited dexterity, braces, or gum disease. Many have pressure sensors and timers to improve your technique.

Water Flossers

Devices like Waterpiks use a stream of pulsating water to clean between teeth and below the gum line. They're excellent for people with braces, implants, or bridges, and they're a good alternative if you find traditional floss difficult.

Interdental Brushes

These small brushes clean between teeth and around dental work more effectively than floss alone in some situations. They're particularly useful for wider spaces or around implants.

Tongue Scrapers

Removing bacteria from your tongue improves breath and reduces the bacterial load in your mouth. Many toothbrushes have built-in tongue cleaners on the back.

Antimicrobial Rinses

Prescription or over-the-counter rinses can help control bacteria, especially for patients with gum disease or high cavity risk. Dr. Morgan will recommend specific rinses if they would benefit you.

Request an appointment call (972) 231-7104

DENTISTRY THAT feels different

At Ellem Dental, exceptional care is our standard. Discover how Dr. Morgan's advanced expertise, personalized service, and commitment to your comfort can transform not just your smile, but your entire dental experience.

Diagnostic Precision

We use advanced digital X rays and intraoral cameras with comprehensive screening protocols to detect problems early. This preventive approach helps identify issues before they become painful, complex, or costly.

Kois-Level Expertise

We're one of the few practices in Richardson with Kois Center-trained doctors, a distinction that represents hundreds of hours studying functional occlusion, esthetics, and evidence-based dentistry. This isn't just continuing education; it's mastery.

Concierge Experience

Experience truly personalized care with one-on-one consultations with Dr. Morgan and treatment from our team of experts. We don’t rush, and we don’t double-book. When you’re at ELLEM Dental, you’re always our number one priority.

Anxiety-Free Options

Dental fear keeps too many people from care. We offer multiple sedation levels and comfort amenities so your treatment happens on your terms, relaxed, informed, and in control.

Smile Test Drive

Our doctor and master ceramist will create a 3D model of your proposed new smile, so you can try in and visualize your new smile before committing to treatment.

Beautiful Office

From the moment you walk through our doors you’ll be met with the serene and spa-like atmosphere of ELLEM Dental. With individual treatment rooms you can sit back and relax in privacy and comfort during your visit.

Diagnostic Precision

We use digital imaging and comprehensive screening protocols that catch problems early. Think of it as preventive intelligence, identifying issues before they become painful or expensive.

Kois-Level Expertise

A Concierge Experience

Anxiety-Free Options

Dental fear keeps too many people from care. We offer multiple sedation levels and comfort amenities so your treatment happens on your terms, relaxed, informed, and in control.

Smile Test Drive

Our doctor and master ceramist will create a 3D model of your proposed new smile, so you can try in and visualize your new smile before committing to treatment.

Beautiful Office

FAQS

Common questions about home care in Richardson, TX

Should I brush before or after breakfast?

Either works, but brushing after breakfast removes food particles and acids. If you brush before, at least rinse your mouth with water after eating.

Are electric toothbrushes better than manual?

For most people, yes. Studies show electric toothbrushes remove more plaque and reduce gingivitis better than manual brushing. However, proper technique matters more than the type of brush.

Do I need to use mouthwash?

Mouthwash is optional for most people. It freshens breath but isn't a substitute for brushing and flossing. Antimicrobial rinses can help patients with gum disease when recommended by Dr. Morgan.

Have more questions?

Give us a call to speak with one of our friendly team members, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Morgan .

call (972) 231-7104

Don’t Wait to Feel Your Best

Experience dentistry reimagined with luxurious amenities, a relaxing spa-like atmosphere, and a dedicated team committed to your beautiful, healthy smile