Find Out How Proper Brushing And Flossing Can Give You More Than Just A Pretty Smile

Best Review Find Out How Proper Brushing And Flossing Can Give You More Than Just A Pretty Smile

If you are like most people, there are areas in your mouth that you may miss when you brush and floss. By brushing and flossing in an effective manner, you can help control plaque and gingivitis. Dental plaque is formed by a bacterial film that is found under the gum line and between teeth, causing them to appear yellowish in color. If left untreated, it becomes calculus (tartar), a calcified (or hardened) bacterial plaque. Gingivitis is an advanced stage of plaque where the gums are inflamed. This is also referred to as a mild stage of periodontal disease. If this is still left untreated, it now becomes advanced periodontitis. It is very important for everyone to have regular dental checkups, even if you think you don't have any problems with your teeth.

Oral Hygiene

In order to minimize the chances of getting periodontal diseases, employing good oral health practices in the home will certainly help you in achieving this goal. Patients should have all the necessary information from their dentist so that they can be proactive in preventing periodontal disease. One way to accomplish this is by purchasing the right kind of toothbrush. Most dentists recommend that you buy a toothbrush with soft bristles, so that it will not injure the delicate gingival tissues, but at the same time also be stiff enough to clean gingival areas and interproximal spaces. The objective of brushing your teeth is to de-plaque teeth. Most people, on the average, spend about 1 minute brushing their teeth. The recommended brushing time should be approximately 3 minutes twice a day every day.

Brushing Basics

There are several ways to brush your teeth, and your dentist can recommend which method is right for you. Most of us probably use the bass method technique. The toothbrush is angled approximately 45 degrees against the gumline, and is rotated towards the occlusal (chewing) surfaces. Do not use excessive force when brushing your teeth as this will cause the gums to bleed. Also, forceful brushing of your teeth strips away tooth enamel causing your gums to become more sensitive. A soft toothbrush is recommended to help prevent sensitive gums. Brushing the gumline is very effective to help reduce plaque build-up. Healthy looking gums are pink in appearance, not red and puffy.

In recent years, we have been introduced to the electric toothbrush, and it has become quite popular in homes today. Whether you choose to use a regular or electric toothbrush, your dentist or hygienist can instruct you as to how to brush properly and gently massage your gums. Be sure to brush twice daily, and pay special attention to your back teeth. Make it a point to establish good dental habits, and also try to eat a well-balanced diet while avoiding sugary snacks.

Flossing

One of the most important things we overlook in taking care of our teeth is flossing. Studies show that brushing your teeth alone is not enough. Flossing removes plaque from the spaces in between your teeth that a toothbrush cannot remove. When selecting what kind of floss to buy, try to obtain one that is either unwaxed or lightly waxed. For those people who lack the manual dexterity to maneuver floss, a floss holder may be helpful. For cases such as cleaning interdental areas between bridge pontics, use dental tape or super floss.

To effectively floss your teeth, take about 12 inches or more of floss and wind it around your index fingers, and then hold the floss between your thumbs and index fingers and gently slide the floss between your teeth. Curve around the base of the tooth and then pull the floss out, never snap the floss up and down, as this may cause you to cut your delicate gum tissue. After you are done flossing, it is also recommended to rinse your mouth out with mouthwash.

For patients that have individual crowns or teeth splinted together, you may be instructed by your dentist or hygienist to use floss threaders or proxy brushes. The size of the interdental space will determine which type of aid is best suited for you. You should use floss if you have a narrow space, a Stim-U-Dent if you have slightly open spaces, and an interdental brush if you have wide open spaces almost going to the root. Again, your dentist will be able to recommend which type of aid is right for you.

As you can see, taking care of your mouth has its advantages. By brushing and flossing your teeth combined with regular professional care by a dentist, you will not only have clean teeth and healthy gums, but you will also help to prevent yourself from becoming prone to bacterial diseases of the mouth. Another advantage is that you will also feel confident to smile in public, knowing that your teeth do not appear unsightly. Take care of your teeth, and they will take care of you, and remember to keep smiling!