Your mouth and teeth, just like other parts of the body, have bacteria, which if not kept under control, can lead to oral infections like gum disease and tooth decay. That’s why proper dental health care is important right from childhood. Are you using the right techniques to care for your teeth and gums? If you aren’t, then follow the steps below for the best dental health care.
Brushing
Consider these brushing basics to keep your teeth clean:
· Brush Twice Daily:
Ensure you brush your teeth twice daily, and as you do so, don’t rush. Take sufficient time to be able to do a thorough job.
· Use Proper Equipment:
Ensure that you always use a fluoride toothpaste, alongside a soft-bristled toothbrush which fits your mouth comfortably.
· Practice Good Technique:
You should hold your brush at a slight angle, aiming its bristles in the direction of the region where your gum meets your tooth. Then, brush gently with short back and forth motions. Also remember to brush the inside, outside and chewing surfaces of your teeth and tongue for proper dental health care. .
· Keep Your Equipment Clean:
After brushing, always rinse the toothbrush with water and store it in an upright position. It’s also important that you don’t store it in a closed container, or cover it, as this encourages bacterial growth. Therefore, place it in an open space where it can air- dry till it’s next use.
· Know When to Replace Your Brush:
Every 3 to 4 months, invest in a new brush, or replace the head of your battery-operated or electric toothbrush.
Flossing:
Flossing daily is vital to enable you to clean the tight spaces between your gum line and teeth. When you floss:
· Be Gentle
Avoid snapping the floss into your gums; instead guide it between your teeth in a rubbing motion.
· Don’t Skimp
Break off approximately 18 inches of the dental floss. Wind most of it around your middle finger on one hand, and the rest of the floss around the middle finger of the other hand, and then tightly hold the floss between your forefingers and thumbs for optimal dental health care.
· One Tooth at a Time
Slide the floss into the space between your tooth and gum, gently rubbing the side of your tooth upwards and downwards. Unwind clean floss as you continue cleaning the rest of your teeth.
It doesn’t matter whether you floss first before brushing or vice versa, as long as you do a thorough job daily, your oral health will be protected, and you’ll be able to keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay while maintaining the best dental health care.
Cascade Dental can help you to have the smile you have always wanted. Smile with confidence after a visit at Cascadesdental.com.
