How to Brush and Floss
The most important part of dental care is down to you. Brushing your teeth every time you eat or twice daily can ensures healthier teeth and gums. And if you dread the dentist’s chair then the best treatment is prevention.
Plaque is a major cause of cavities. It is a transparent layer of bacteria that coat the teeth. Brushing your teeth will remove the plaque build-up. You can also floss once a day to ensure that all plaque is removed, even where the brush cannot reach. Brushing stimulates the gums too, which keep the gums healthy and prevent gum disease.
Always make sure that your toothpaste contains fluoride. This is the most common ingredient in toothpaste and it prevents cavities.
Tartar is plaque but in a hardened form. One in ten people find that tartar accumulates on their teeth. Using anti-tartar toothpastes can target this problem as well as spending a little extra time brushing in front of the saliva glands.
If you have sensitive teeth, talk to us about the best way to overcome this problem. It may be as simple as changing your toothpaste to a special, sensitive toothpaste.
Top tips on brushing:
- Gently brush your teeth, holding your brush at a 45 degree angle against your gum line. Use gentle circular strokes, starting from where the tooth meets the gum. Be careful not to brush too hard as this could cause receding gums, and over time, tooth sensitivity, or even tooth loss.
- Using a sweeping motion, gently brush your tongue in a downward motion to remove the decay- causing bacteria. Not forgetting the roof of your mouth.
- A lot of people do not brush for the suggested 2-3 minutes each day. Use an egg timer, or play a favourite song to get used to brushing for the suggested time.
- Brush with a soft round bristle toothbrush
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
- The correct brushing motion is more like massaging along the gum line rather than vigorous brushing
Other dental care steps, which can help maintain your natural teeth for life, include;
- Use toothpaste with added fluoride
- In order to stop plaque from forming between teeth, you should floss your teeth daily
- Floss against the end-side of the tooth and scale the floss up-and-down several times
- Stock dental floss in your purse, at your office desk and in your car for use when needed
.Your tongue is a major source of plaque and bad breath. Brush your tongue gently with your toothbrush twice daily (when you brush your teeth)
- Attend regular 6 monthly hygiene appointments. At Dental 359 we provide a one hour comprehensive check-up, exam and cleans.
- Have oral cancer screenings. This is done routinely in your 6 monthly appointments at Dental 359.
- Avoid tobacco products
- Avoid excessive alcohol use
- Maintain a healthy diet
Please call our team at Dental 359 on 1 300 625 625 or email us on smile@dental359.com.au to book your professional cleaning and examination appointment.
