In today’s busy world, it’s easy to skip brushing and flossing every now and then. It’s no surprise that missing this regular dental care element can spell problems for your oral health.
But even if you clean your teeth regularly, you can miss cavity-causing plaque and bacteria that lead to dental disease, especially when you don’t clean them correctly. So how can you be sure you’re brushing and flossing the right way?
At his practice in Butte, Montana, Robert F. Wilcox, DMD, offers a comprehensive line of dental services to help you enjoy the best oral health possible. When you come in for your regular checkup, we’re happy to review best practices in brushing and flossing.
To help you get started, Dr. Wilcox and our team put their heads together to give you our top tips on brushing and flossing correctly. Here’s what you need to know.
Every day a sticky film called plaque collects on your teeth. Plaque develops when the naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth mix with foods. The higher in sugar the food, the more plaque that forms.
Brushing and flossing helps remove plaque from your teeth. If you don’t brush and floss regularly — or if you don’t do it the right way — plaque hardens into tartar. This difficult-to-remove substance creates a layer where bacteria can flourish, increasing your risk of gingivitis.
Gingivitis (inflamed gums) is a mild form of gum disease, but if ignored, it can lead to bigger oral health issues, like periodontal disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Gingivitis has also been linked to serious overall health complications. Symptoms include:
By brushing and flossing regularly — the right way — you can prevent and even reverse gingivitis and the more serious complications it can bring.
You probably already know you should brush your teeth at least twice a day. It’s equally important not to skip flossing, since brushing only cleans about half of the surface area of your teeth.
Here’s a closer look at the steps you can take to ensure the best oral hygiene:
Using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush, place it at a 45-degree angle where your teeth and gums come together. Brush the entire surface of your teeth using small, circular motions.
You’ll also want to brush your gumline, cheeks, and tongue. Pay extra attention to your molars and back teeth, and use back-and-forth motions to clean these chewing surfaces.
Change your toothbrush every three months or so (or sooner if you get sick). If you use an electric toothbrush, be sure it’s approved by the American Dental Association.
Using a piece of dental floss that’s about 18 inches long, wrap one end around the middle fingers of each hand until you have about 2-3 inches of floss between them.
Gently move the floss between your teeth toward your gumline, curving the floss around each tooth and sliding it below the edge of your gums. Floss up and down several times between each tooth to remove plaque and food debris.
Don’t use too much force, as this can cause your gums to bleed. And don’t forget to floss along the back side of your back-most tooth.
Never reuse the same piece of dental floss, as it could deposit bacteria back into your mouth.
In addition to following the above guidelines, you shouldn’t brush or floss your teeth with too much force. Use a gentle touch and a toothbrush with soft bristles, because rough or vigorous brushing with hard bristles and flossing too vigorously can degrade dental enamel.
When this happens, it’s easier for cavities to develop. Plus, you risk damaging your gums, increasing your risk of gingivitis and gum disease. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and follow the instructions for brushing and flossing with care, using a gentle touch.
For personalized instructions on brushing and flossing or to set up a routine dental visit, schedule an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Wilcox in Butte, Montana.
