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The best way to prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay
-- and keep your teeth for a lifetime -- is good oral
health care. That is, through brushing, flossing and
regular dental visits that include a periodontal
evaluation. Brushing and flossing remove a thin sticky
film of bacteria that grows on your teeth. This sticky film,
called plaque, is the main cause of tooth decay and gum disease.
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Daily Oral Health Care |
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The best way to remove decay-causing plaque is by brushing and
cleaning between your teeth every day. Brushing removes plaque
from the tooth surfaces. |
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Brush your teeth twice a day, with a soft-bristled brush. The
size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth, allowing you
to reach all areas easily. Use a toothpaste that contains
fluoride, which helps protect your teeth from decay.
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Cleaning between the teeth once a day with floss removes
plaque from between the teeth, areas where the toothbrush can't
reach. It is essential in preventing gum disease.
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By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet and
visiting your dentist regularly, you can have healthy teeth and
an attractive smile your entire life.
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Brushing Your Teeth |
- Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle
against the gums.
- Move the brush back and forth gently in
short (tooth-wide) strokes.
- Brush the outer tooth
surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing
surfaces of the teeth.
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- Use the "toe" of the
brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth,
using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
- Brush your tongue to remove
bacteria and freshen your breath.
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Flossing Your Teeth |
- Break off about 18 inches of
floss and wind most of it around one of your middle
fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger
of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss
as it becomes dirty. Hold the floss tightly between your
thumbs and forefingers.
- Guide the floss between your
teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss
into the gums.
- When the floss reaches the gum
line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently
slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
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- Hold the floss tightly against
the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the
floss away from the gum with up and down motions.
- Repeat this method on the rest
of your teeth.
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Click
here for some tips to help families achieve optimal oral
health from the American Academy of Periodontology.
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© Copyright 2003 - 2008 Dr. Charles Kaner, D.D.S.
Last Updated: 12/10/08.
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