Oral Hygiene

Why Is Oral Hygiene So Important?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum disease (periodontal disease) than to cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is good brushing and flossing, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque — a colorless film that sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth, but thorough daily brushing and flossing removes these germs and helps prevent periodontal disease.

How to Brush

1. While brushing the outside surfaces of your teeth, position the brush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently move the brush in a circular motion several times using small, gentle strokes.
2. Use light pressure while putting the bristles between the teeth, but not so much pressure that you feel any discomfort.
3. When you are done cleaning the outside surfaces of all your teeth, follow the same directions while cleaning the inside of the back teeth.
4. To clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the brush vertically and make several gentle back-and-forth strokes over each tooth. Don’t forget to gently brush the surrounding gum tissue.
5. Clean the biting surfaces of your teeth using short, gentle strokes. Change the position of the brush as often as necessary to reach and clean all surfaces. Try to watch yourself in the mirror to make sure you clean each surface.
6. When you are done, rinse vigorously to remove any plaque you might have loosened while brushing.

If you have any pain while brushing or have any questions about how to brush properly, please be sure to call the office.