Facts you may not know that could have a big impact on your oral health
By Dr. Ruth Kenworthy
Did you know that there is actually a proper way to brush? What about a proper length for floss to be? And why do these things matter? I’ll answer these questions and more in this simple guide to basic daily care for your teeth.
It’s not a new story – you’ve heard it before: “The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.” Well, even if it sounds like a broken record, it’s the truth!
The bacterial plaque (ew, yuck!) that causes periodontal disease and decay is described as a colorless film that sticks to your teeth and gums. This icky stuff is constantly forming on your teeth, night and day. It is through correct oral hygiene that we are able to destroy it, or at the very least minimize it.
I recommend using a soft to medium strength toothbrush to brush your teeth correctly at least twice a day. So what does “correctly” mean, you ask? The best way to brush is by using the bristles at an approximately 45-degree angle. Concentrating on the area that your teeth and gums meet, gently use the brush to make small circles while also applying light pressure. After brushing the gum line area, move on and repeat the same technique on the outer and inner sides of your teeth.
The only difference is in brushing the inside of your front teeth and the surface area of all teeth. For both the lower and upper front teeth, you can use vertical stokes. For the surface sections of your teeth, use shorter, gentle strokes and position the brush however you need to reach each surface. If you begin to feel any discomfort during the brushing process, back off on the pressure a little. If you still feel discomfort, it’s time to make an appointment to come in for a check-up. This could be an indication of a problem of bigger concern.
Next, we will discuss the best way to floss. The most important purpose of flossing is to remove plaque from the areas between teeth that tooth-brushing cannot reach. I recommend starting with waxes floss that is at least 18” long. Wrapping each end of the floss around your middle fingers, use the floss to clean your upper teeth. By holding the floss firmly between thumb and forefinger, gently insert it between each pair of teeth using a forward and back motion.
After doing so, then curve the floss into a C-shape against the side of each tooth ensuring that you can reach all areas of the gum line. Repeat for the remainder of your upper teeth. In an effort to clean the plaque from your bottom teeth, continue the same process but guide the floss primarily using your forefingers. And don’t forget the backside of your last tooth – both on the top and bottom!
