It is recommended that you brush your teeth for two minutes at a time, using gentle circular motions. Brush your teeth on the inside surfaces, chewing surfaces, and front surfaces. Plaque should also be removed from between your teeth by flossing once a day. Follow your gum line's curve when flossing and use a gentle back-and-forth motion. When flossing is difficult, you can use an interdental brush.
You should visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. Additionally, specialists in periodontics in Denver can also help you if you have any periodontium issues, such as gingiva, cementum, or alveolar bone.
Here are some detailed suggestions on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime.
The Best Way to Brush
It is a common misconception that the harder you brush your teeth, the cleaner they will be. This isn't true. Too much brushing can damage your teeth and gums. Focus instead on using gentle, circular motions. Make sure your brush has soft bristles as well. Your gums and teeth will be less likely to be damaged by a soft brush.
Brushing your teeth for two minutes is the minimum amount of time recommended by the American Dental Association. Depending on your Denver dentist, you may also be advised to "brush each tooth in small, circular motions. Make sure all areas are covered. This should take a few minutes when done thoroughly."
After brushing every tooth, your Denver dentist at Gentle Smiles of Colorado may also suggest cleaning the roof of your mouth and your tongue softly with the bristles. After brushing, rinse your mouth, and don't swallow toothpaste.
For your teeth to be healthy and shiny, follow these simple tips:
- Electric toothbrushes are more effective at cleaning teeth and gums than manual toothbrushes.
- Sweets should be consumed in moderation. Sugary foods and carbonated drinks (such as soda) produce acids that bacteria love to build on, destroying tooth enamel.
The Correct Way to Floss
Flossing is used to remove bacteria and buildup between teeth, where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. Plaque buildup (which causes tooth decay) can be prevented by flossing and brushing moderately. You should floss regularly as part of your daily routine.
Flossing should be done as follows:
- Leave an inch or two of floss to work with after wrapping a long string of floss around your fingers.
- Using a back-and-forth motion, gently insert the floss between your teeth.
- Curve the floss in a C shape against one tooth and slide it up and down against its side when it reaches the gumline.
- Make sure you get under the gumline! Before moving on to the next tooth, repeat this motion three or four times.
- Make sure you floss behind your back teeth as well!
Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are the cornerstones of good dental hygiene. Additionally, we have considerable experience in periodontics in Denver. We have offices in Denver, Golden, & Wheat Ridge, CO. You can contact us online or by phone at (303) 756-2770 in Denver, (303) 278-2800 in Golden, or (303) 425-5100 in Wheat Ridge. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!