Oral Hygiene
Why is Oral Hygiene So Important?
Did you know that adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum disease (periodontal disease) than to cavities? In fact, three out of four adults will experience some form of gum disease in their lifetime. The best way to prevent this—and maintain a healthy, confident smile—is through daily brushing and flossing, along with regular professional dental care.
Gum disease and tooth decay are both caused by plaque, a colorless, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. Without proper cleaning, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation, infection, and eventually tooth loss. The good news? With the right oral hygiene habits, you can protect your smile for life.
Brushing Your Teeth: The Right Way
If you ever experience pain while brushing or have questions about your technique, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team—we’re happy to help!
Brushing Tips for a Healthier Smile
✔ Use a soft or extra-soft toothbrush to protect your gums.
✔ Angle the brush at 45 degrees where your teeth and gums meet.
✔ Brush in small, circular motions with gentle strokes—no scrubbing!
✔ Clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces.
✔ For front teeth, hold the brush vertically and use gentle up-and-down strokes.
✔ Don’t forget your gums and tongue—they can harbor bacteria too!
When you’re finished brushing, rinse your mouth thoroughly to remove any loosened plaque.
Flossing: The Key to Healthy Gums
Brushing alone can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth where plaque and bacteria accumulate. That’s why flossing is essential in preventing gum disease and cavities.
Flossing Tips for Best Results
✔ Use 18 inches of floss and wrap most of it around your fingers, leaving a small section to work with.
✔ Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion—never snap it in!
✔ Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth and move it up and down, cleaning beneath the gumline.
✔ Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.
✔ Don’t forget the back teeth—they need cleaning too!
If your gums bleed when you first start flossing, don’t worry—it’s a sign that bacteria and plaque are irritating them. Stick with it, and your gums will become healthier over time.
Dealing with Sensitive Teeth?
If you experience sensitivity to hot or cold, it’s often due to exposed dentin or gum recession. Sensitivity can improve with good oral hygiene, but if it persists, let us know. We may recommend a desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and reduce discomfort.
Choosing the Right Oral Care Products
With so many options available, choosing the right oral care products can be overwhelming. Here are some recommendations:
✔ Electric Toothbrushes: Highly effective at removing plaque, especially brands like Rotadent and Interplak.
✔ Water Flossers: Great for rinsing, but should be used alongside flossing—not as a replacement.
✔ Fluoride Toothpaste & Rinse: Can reduce cavities by up to 40% when used regularly.
✔ Tartar-Control Toothpaste: Helps prevent buildup above the gumline, but won’t stop gum disease on its own.
✔ ADA-Approved Anti-Plaque Rinses: These can help control early gum disease when used along with brushing and flossing.
If you have any questions about the best products for your oral health, we’re happy to provide personalized recommendations!
The Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings
Even with the best brushing and flossing routine, some plaque and tartar buildup is inevitable—especially in hard-to-reach areas. That’s why regular professional cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
At your visit, we’ll remove stubborn tartar, check for early signs of gum disease, and provide personalized advice to help you keep your smile in top shape.
Your smile is worth it! Schedule your next dental cleaning today and take the next step toward lifelong oral health.
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