Taking care of your teeth each day is crucial for avoiding issues like tooth decay and gum disease. But to truly protect your smile, you need to do so properly! In today’s blog, your Woodland Hills, CA, dentist talks about how to correctly brush and floss your teeth each day, and why this helps safeguard oral health.
Brushing Teeth
How often do you brush your teeth? You should do this first thing in the morning, and then again right before bed. To ensure you’re properly cleaning every available surface, you need to do so for at least two minutes. You can use a sand timer or even a song to time yourself if that helps. The toothbrush you use is important, as you want one with soft bristles to prevent inadvertent enamel damage or gum recession. You can use an electric or manual one, both are effective if used correctly. Try to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, as this helps strengthen the outer enamel to prevent cavities from forming. For children, be sure those under three use a rice-sized amount, and that kids over three use a pea-sized amount.
Cleaning Between Your Teeth
Flossing is vital, as this removes what is beyond the reach of a toothbrush. You should floss every evening before bed, and kids need to begin flossing as soon as teeth are sitting side-by-side. Kids and those with limited dexterity can use a pick or water flosser. If you’re using tape, then take an 18-inch to 10-inch length of floss and wrap each end around your thumbs, and hold it tight with your index fingers. You can then adjust the grip to use a clean portion for each tooth. Run the tape up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line when you do. This helps limit the risk of cavities and gum disease, and also fights bad breath too.
Fighting Plaque Buildup
The reason we clean our teeth each day is to remove the particles left behind by our foods and drinks, especially the items high in sugar and starch, as these can be broken down by bacteria to cause plaque buildup. Plaque then increases the risk of cavities and periodontal issues by weakening outer enamel and inflaming gum tissues. To have the buildup removed completely, you need to see us for a dental cleaning every six months. If you have any questions, then give us a call today.
Talk to Your Woodland Hills, CA Dentist About Oral Hygiene
We want to make sure you and your family avoid poor oral health with better hygiene habits. If you would like to learn more about how to care for your smile from home, then contact your Woodland Hills, CA dentist, Dr. Naminik, by calling 818-347-5124.