When you take time to care for your smile each day, you help strengthen your teeth and gums, and hold off serious problems like cavities or even gum disease. However, to do so you need to brush and floss correctly! In today’s blog, your Omaha, NE, dentist will explain how to maintain better brushing and flossing habits.
The Risks of Plaque and Tartar Buildup
What happens when bits of food and drink remain stuck on or between our teeth? Well, bacteria will break down these particles, which then elevates oral acidity and coats the teeth in plaque. A sticky bacterial byproduct, plaque eventually hardens into tartar. This buildup then weakens and erodes tooth enamel, exposing inner dentin and allowing cavities and infection to form. The layer also inflames gum tissues to cause gingivitis and gum disease. Bad breath and teeth stains could also arise as a result of plaque and tartar. To prevent this buildup and control it in between the dental cleanings visits, you need to brush and floss daily, without exception!
Brushing Your Teeth
We suggest people of all ages, from toddlers to teens and adults, brush their teeth when they wake up and then again before going to sleep. Each session should take no less than two minutes, otherwise you may not be adequality cleaning the surfaces of your teeth. Be sure your toothbrush, whether electric or manual, has soft bristles. If you brush too rough with hard or medium bristles, you risk enamel erosion and gum inflammation. When you clean your teeth, be sure the toothpaste you use contains fluoride, which strengthens the outer enamel and helps protect your smile. If you aren’t sure whether a brand contains fluoride, look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
Daily Flossing
You also need to floss every night before going to bed. When you floss, you clean the portions between your teeth and along the gum line where food particles could become trapped, portions that a toothbrush’s bristles my not be able to reach. You should move the floss tape up and down the length of every side of every tooth, and dip below the gum line briefly each time. If you have any questions about caring for your smile each day, or if you would like to schedule a checkup and cleaning visit for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Preventive Dentistry?
Routine care from home helps stave off serious issues like tooth decay and gum disease. To learn more about our approach to preventive dentistry then schedule a consultation by calling Pacific Hills Dental in Omaha, NE, today at (402) 330-2243. We also serve the residents of Papillion, Elkhorn, La Vista, Millard, and all surrounding communities.
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