We want to see you and your family every six months for a checkup and cleaning visit, so we can help you enjoy optimal oral health. But you also need to care for your kids in between these visits. In today’s blog, your Rochester, MN, dentist discusses a few tips for proper brushing and flossing.
Fighting Plaque Buildup
We brush and floss each day to remove the stray particles left behind by our foods and drinks. Otherwise, these particles will be broken down and consumed by oral bacteria, the kind that will leave plaque and tartar behind. Plaque is a sticky layer that coats the teeth and over time, hardens into tartar. The buildup has been linked to not only bad breath and teeth stains, but a higher risk of cavities, infection, gingivitis, and even gum disease. To limit how much can accumulate until you see us for a professional cleaning, during which we remove all layers completely, you need to maintain good oral hygiene habits. We have a few tips to help you!
Brushing Your Teeth
Every member of your family needs to brush their teeth, from the youngest to the oldest. We suggest using a toothbrush that has soft bristles. You can opt for electric or manual, as both are effective. You should also use a toothpaste that has fluoride, as this can strengthen the weakened portions of enamel and help you fight tooth decay. Kids three and younger need a rice sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, while everyone over the age of three needs a pea sized amount.
Approach your teeth at a 45-degree angle to clean the tops and sides, and also use circular motions for the front facing teeth, make sure you’re cleaning along the gum line too. Each session should take two minutes, and you can time yourself with a sand timer, song, or video if that helps.
Flossing Each Evening
You also need to floss! When you floss, you clean the portions that a toothbrush’s bristles cannot reach. We recommend doing this each evening before you brush for the second time. Using tape, string, or a pick, clean up and down each side of every tooth, and dip beneath the gum line to remove trapped particles. This is essential for fighting gingivitis and gum disease. If you have any questions about protecting your smile, then contact our team today.
TALK TO YOUR ROCHESTER, MN DENTIST ABOUT GOOD ORAL HYGIENE
We want to help you and your family safeguard your smiles from home with regular oral hygiene habits. If you would like to find out more about caring for your smiles from home, or if you wish to book an appointment at our location, call Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN at (507) 281-3659.
