Oral Hygiene
Making Oral Hygiene a Priority
Adults in their mid-thirties can become more at risk of tooth loss due to gum disease or periodontal disease than from cavities. Over 75% of adults will encounter periodontal decay at some point in their life. Healthy habits of brushing teeth and flossing can dramatically reduce these percentages. When performed daily, these habits are the front line of defense against cavities and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease onset is a buildup of bacterial plaque, a film found on the teeth near the gum line. This is a natural process that occurs in everyone’s mouth. The keys to preventing build-up are daily brushing and flossing. The elimination of germs and bacteria helps maintain a healthy mouth and prevents periodontal disease.
You Must Brush Your Teeth
- Dr. Davis and Dr. Sojourner-Critz recommend a medium bristle toothbrush.
- Find a 45-degree angle where your teeth and gums meet.
- Brush in a circular rotation gently for several rotations.
- Be sure to cover both the outside and inside portions of all teeth, front to back.
- Adjust your pressure from light to medium. Do not use hard pressure. Try to avoid discomfort.
- Gently brush surrounding gum tissue.
- Clean the biting surface of each tooth. Adjust your angles and pressure as needed.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly to remove any plaque or food particles loosened while brushing.
- If you are having any pain or discomfort while brushing or flossing your teeth or if you have questions about any healthy habits, contact Legacy West Dental at 469-530-4168.
You Must Floss Your Teeth
Many times, periodontal disease will first develop between the teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach. This makes flossing crucial to remove plaque effectively from all surfaces in the mouth. It is also important to learn to use proper flossing techniques.
- Begin with a single strand of floss approximately 18” in length. We recommend waxed floss.
- Wrap most of the floss around the middle finger on each hand.
- Use the index fingers to direct the floss.
- Clean upper teeth first.
- Hold the floss with tension between the thumb and index finger.
- Gently insert the floss between your teeth with a back-and-forth motion.
- Do Not Force.
- Bring the floss toward the gum line and tooth, feeling for gentle resistance on the floss.
- Motion the floss up and down and side to side, ensuring proper contact with both surfaces.
- Continue this process throughout the upper mouth.
- As you proceed, rotate the floss off the middle fingers it is wrapped around to expose clean floss.
- Continue this process for all teeth, both upper and lower.
- Rinse the mouth vigorously with water to remove excess plaque and food particles.
- Take note: A small amount of bleeding may occur, which is normal. If you are experiencing pain, stop and consult your dentist.
Your Sensitive Teeth
Many patients experience some sensitivity to hot and cold after a dental treatment. This sensitivity should only be temporary. It is very important post treatment to continue the healthy habit of keeping your mouth clean. Sensitivity might remain if proper cleaning does not occur. If your teeth continue to have sensitivity after a short period of time, consult your dentist, who could possibly recommend a medicated toothpaste or mouth rinse to help alleviate sensitivity.
Legacy West Dental Cleanings
Having our professional staff conduct a full treatment and cleaning will be the biggest boost toward your overall oral health. Regular brushing and flossing, while coupled with the care provided by our amazing staff, give you the greatest opportunity for oral health. Our methods for removing calculus from places your toothbrush and floss have missed are critical for this success. Each time you visit our office, you take a big step toward positive oral health and being able to keep your teeth intact for your entire life.