Brushing Your Teeth

Brushing and flossing are probably the most important things you can do to protect your teeth because these two actions upset the bacteria. When bacteria form, they create a very organized matrix. The only way to get bacteria off your teeth is to disorganize the matrix, and nothing is better at disorganizing a bacterial matrix than brushing and flossing your teeth.

Plaque is a sticky, invisible film that builds up on your teeth and gums. Bacteria in the plaque create toxins that cause the gums to swell and bleed. This condition is called gingivitis. Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition which can cause your gums to separate from your teeth. The infection can even spread to your bone.

Bacteria already in your mouth will thrive in the sugar content from the food you eat and the beverages you drink and create an acid that eats away at the enamel. Given enough time, the bacteria can destroy enough of the tooth to create a cavity.

When you purchase a toothbrush, make sure the head is small enough to get in back of your mouth comfortably. If you get too big a head on the toothbrush, you’ll bump into your gums, teeth, and jawbone. For most folks, ultra soft bristles are best. Hard bristles can damage your gums, the roots of your teeth, and your enamel.

When you buy toothpaste, buy the cheapest you can find because the toothpaste doesn’t matter as much as the mechanical actions of brushing and flossing. Toothpaste with fluoride is beneficial because the fluoride helps strengthen your teeth, assuming you don’t get too much fluoride if your water is fluoridated.

Flossing reaches where the toothbrush doesn’t. Floss also upsets the bacteria’s matrix so it’s easier to remove.

Mouthwash really has no function. It’s like perfume for your mouth. It smells good, but doesn’t do much to improve gum health or the strength of your teeth. Most mouthwash contains alcohol which can dry out your mouth. If you really want to use mouthwash, dilute it by half. That way it won’t be so strong and you’ll save money to boot!

When brushing your teeth, put the brush tip against your gums, then angle at 45-degrees. Move in a circular motion, cleaning two or three teeth at a time until all teeth are clean. Use the front half of the brush to clean the back of your front teeth, using up and down strokes. Be sure to clean the biting area of the back teeth, top and bottom.

When brushing your teeth, remember the tongue! It’s a good place for bacteria to roost and raise a stink. Give it a gentle cleaning morning and night and your breath will always be fresh and pleasant.

Dentist Dr. Long Vo and Dentist Dr. Julie Dao of Smile Centre Dental in Burlington, Ontario are two people you want on your side in the battle for oral health. Give them a call today and see what they can do for your smile! 905.332.0330

This video has one question and answer by Dr. Long Vo when interviewed for DentalSecrets101.com

To get YOUR questions answered or for a consultation or dental appointment, Burlington ON Dentist Dr. Long Vo can be reached at 905.332.0330

Brushing Your Teeth – Which Toothpaste Is Best? Which Mouthwash Is Best?

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Brushing Your Teeth

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