Oral care is a necessary part of our daily routine, so it is essential that you take proper steps to ensure all is accounted for. To help demystify what you should be doing on a daily basis, here are some tips and tricks from your Catonsville dentist on becoming an effective at oral hygiene.

Brush correctly, twice daily.

Brushing is crucial to combating plague, bacteria, and cavities. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste and brush each tooth individually. To brush the front and back of each tooth, the toothbrush should be positioned at a 45 degree angle to your gum line, pressed against the gum line, and moved in a circular motion. To effectively clean the very back teeth, it’s helpful to angle the toothbrush vertically while using the same circular motion used to brush the rest of the teeth.

Floss properly, once daily.

Flossing targets the bacteria caught in-between teeth. Use an adequate length of floss (about eighteen inches), run a one inch section of floss back and forth against the entire side of each tooth.

Use a soft-bristle, comfortable toothbrush.

The efficiency of your oral care depends more on your brushing habits than your toothbrush, but there are a few important factors to consider when choosing a toothbrush. Brushes with overly stiff bristles tend to irritate the gums. Thus, a soft bristle toothbrush is recommended. Additionally, it’s important that the toothbrush is easy to use. So, you should experiment with different sizes of toothbrush handles and heads to find a toothbrush that fits comfortably in your hand and your mouth.

Use a healthy toothbrush.

Toothbrushes can both collect bacteria and become worn. For example, if you fail to rinse your toothbrush, bacteria removed while brushing may stay on your toothbrush and be returned to your mouth the next time you brush. Also, if you don’t allow your toothbrush to dry properly, the moisture will encourage bacteria growth on the brush. As for wear and tear, bristles become ineffective when they are frayed or broken. Replace your toothbrush based on your assessment of its appearance. Most dentists hand out free toothbrushes upon visits, so make sure you schedule your regular 6-month cleaning with Affinity Dental, your Catonsville dentist.

Use the correct toothpaste.

Like your toothbrush, your toothpaste must suit your specific oral care needs. The only requirements for toothpaste are fluoridation and the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. Otherwise, experiment with different flavors, textures, and special types of toothpaste (toothpaste for tartar control, teeth whitening, sensitive teeth, etc.).

Avoid foods with acid and sugar; embrace foods with calcium and crispiness.

Acid damages tooth enamel, discolors teeth, and prompts tooth sensitivity. Sugar encourages bacterial growth and tooth decay. Consequently, it’s wise to avoid sugary foods such as candy, and acidic drinks such as citrus juices, wine, and soda. On the other hand, foods with calcium help maintain healthy tooth enamel, and foods with crisp help clean plaque off teeth. So, to bolster your oral care efforts, indulge in calcium-rich dairy and crisp fruits and vegetables.

And, of course, regular visits to the dentist are essential to oral hygiene. So, give us a call at 410-719-7900, visit our website, or stop in to make an appointment with the best Catonsville dentist! Our doctors and staff are dedicated to improving your dental health!

Affinity Dental Associates: Nutrition & Oral Health in Catonsville, Maryland

Our doctors and staff are dedicated to improving your dental health!

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Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/teeth-gum-care

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-teeth-10/brushing-teeth-mistakes?page=2

http://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/select_toothpaste.html

http://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/nutrition.html