The Understated Importance of Basic Dental Care

Keeping a happy and healthy smile always begins with good oral hygiene. I know, you have probably heard this time and time again, but it’s always good to keep in mind how important brushing and flossing really are. Before we talk details about the outcome of poor dental hygiene, let’s go over the benefits of picking up that brush twice a day and using floss.

As you probably know, brushing is the best way to remove particles from your teeth and gums, especially the plaque that builds up and the bacteria that can lead to cavities and other unwanted dental problems. It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day, but most dentists will suggest brushing after lunch as well. At least make sure you brush morning and night with fluoride toothpaste. Why is fluoride important? you might ask. Fluoride is a compound of fluorine and is absorbed by teeth and bones, which then makes them stronger and less likely to become fractured or decayed. When it is added to our drinking water it is easily absorbed into our tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay.

Here is additional brushing advice:

·     Don’t rush! Studies have shown that most people brush their teeth in a hurry, meaning they are not properly cleaning their mouths. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth for at least three minutes to make sure you thoroughly get all areas.

·     Another thing that a lot of people may not realize is that brushing is more than just making contact with your teeth. Make sure you are also getting the roof and bottom of your mouth, your gums and your tongue. Your tongue can trap unwanted bacteria and it will stay there unless you clean it out. Brushing your tongue also helps your breath stay fresh.

Good oral hygiene doesn’t stop there! In addition to a thorough brushing, it is wise to floss your teeth once a day. Flossing removes debris and bacteria that your toothbrush just can’t reach, especially from the spaces between your teeth. Flossing is extremely important to your dental health as it increases the blood flow in your gums and removes plaque that can lead to cavities, gum disease and other dental problems. Make sure you scrape the floss down the sides of your teeth rather than snapping it in. If you just snap floss between your teeth you are still leaving the rest of the debris that is between your teeth and gums. If you do not floss often it’s likely that your gums will bleed the first few times you start, but don’t let it discourage you. The more you floss the less likely your gums will bleed. It’s best to get yourself in a flossing routine if you don’t have one now. Trust me, you will thank yourself later.

Practicing these basic cleaning steps can save you from high dental bills and pain. People who do not take care of their oral health are at high risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease, including periodontal disease, which can happen if you let gingivitis go untreated. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth loss and is linked with other health problems outside of the mouth.

If you suffer from numerous dental-related problems yourself, you may be feeling embarrassed, or even scared because you don’t know if your teeth are salvageable. However, there is no reason to feel anything but confident that dentists like us WILL help you find the best solution for your dental problems, regardless of how complicated they are. We also want to give you the knowledge and tools you need to practice good preventive care so you can keep your smile beautiful and healthy at all stages of your life. Contact us today to see how we can meet your dental needs and help you achieve optimal oral health.

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