Oral Hygiene

Neglect of oral hygiene is a major cause of loss of teeth as a result of tooth decay (dental caries, or cavities) and gum disease (periodontal disease). The best way to prevent this is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Brush your teeth regularly morning and evening. Use a soft to medium tooth brush. Position the brush at a 45 degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently move the brush in a circular motion several times using small, gentle strokes brushing the outside surfaces of your teeth. Use light pressure only, so that do not feel any discomfort. To clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the brush vertically. Make several gentle back-and-forth strokes over each tooth. Don’t forget to gently brush the surrounding gum tissue.

Regular flossing of the teeth is also important. Periodontal disease usually appears between the teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. However, it is important to develop the proper technique. Start with a piece of floss (waxed is easier) about 18” long. Lightly wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand. Wrap the rest of the floss around the middle finger of the other hand. Hold the floss tightly between the thumb and forefinger of each hand. Gently insert the floss between the teeth. Bring the floss to the gumline then curve it into a C-shape against one tooth. Move the floss up and down on the side of one tooth. Then do the same for the adjacent tooth. Continue to floss each side of all the teeth. Be careful not to cut the gum tissue between the teeth. As the floss becomes soiled, turn from one finger to the other to get a fresh section. When you are done, rinse vigorously with water to remove plaque and food particles.

Looking After Your Children's Teeth

The most common causes of cavities in children's teeth are a diet high in sugary foods and a lack of brushing. Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly are very important for maintaining dental health. Bacteria that always live in the mouth digest food and produce acid. There is most acid present 20mins after a meal. During this time the acid environment can destroy the tooth structure, eventually leading to cavities.

To reduce cavities, limit the frequency of snacks; reduce sugary pop drinks, sweets and sticky foods. When treats are given, make them part of meals and not snacks in between meals. Encourage brushing, flossing and rinsing.

Professional Cleaning

Calculus causes gum disease. Daily brushing and flossing will keep dental calculus to a minimum, but a professional cleaning by your dental hygienist will remove calculus in places your toothbrush and floss have missed. Regular visits to your dentist for a check up and dental cleaning are an important part of your program to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Keep your teeth for your lifetime.