It’s interesting, sort of. (Well, not really to Dr. Brown…) Most people probably pay more attention to the purported oil change timeline of their cars than they do to the maintenance of their teeth. Considering that healthy teeth are an important component of everyday life, and you can always buy another car, that makes no sense.
Well, if you want healthy teeth, it doesn’t take much. All you need is a consistent brushing and flossing regimen and that’s pretty much it. How about we have a refresher course in what you need to be doing to keep your teeth as healthy as possible at home.
What is the proper way of brushing my teeth?
Your teeth need to be brushed at least twice a day, but not more than three times. Use a soft-bristled brush (bristles that are too stiff can damage your tooth enamel and make your gums recede) and use gentle pressure. You should brush for around two minutes, 30 seconds per quarter of your mouth. Here’s how to brush teeth properly:
- Position your tooth brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Using small, circular strokes, gently brush the teeth while making sure that the bristles are also touching the gums. Use overlapping circles to cover all the tooth surfaces.
- When brushing, make sure the inner, outer, and biting surfaces of the teeth are included.
- Using the tip of the brush, clean the inner portion of your front teeth.
- It is important to brush the tongue as well to remove existing bacteria and to freshen up your breath. And don’t miss the roof of your mouth.
The American Dental Association made Oral-B Electric Toothbrushes the first electrics to gain its seal of approval, and there is research that proves electric toothbrushes do a better job for most people. They’re worth a look, for sure.
What is the correct way of flossing my teeth?
Flossing has two purposes. It removes food debris and plaque from between the teeth, and it stimulates the gums. Floss once daily. Follow these steps to properly floss your teeth:
- Use a piece around 18 inches long. Wrap the thread around your middle fingers and leave 2 inches of thread in between your fingers.
- Use your thumbs and forefingers to gently insert the floss in between each tooth and clean the area following a sawing motion.
- Hold the floss in a “C” shape on each tooth as well as under the gumline. Move the thread up and down to clean every side of the tooth.
If you want more convenience, you can purchase floss holders. Mint or cinnamon flavors make no difference, but if they make you floss more often, then go for it!
There, that wasn’t such a big deal, and it’s so much more valuable than heeding the bogus 3,000-mile dictates for oil changes that come from the fast lube joints. Happy, healthy teeth will serve you the rest of your life. Your current car? Not so much.
Of course, home hygiene is critical, but so is keeping your twice-yearly professional cleanings and exams with Dr. Brown and our team at Implant Dentistry of Florida. That’s when we can spot early signs of problems, such as tooth decay or gum irritation, before they become big problems.
Is it time for your next appointment in our beautiful Melbourne offices? Call us at (321) 372-7700 to make your appointment.