Teeth Whitening

Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.

Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease.

Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by regular brushing, flossing and other dental aids.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day especially before going to bed at night with a soft bristle brush and toothpaste.

1. Use a circular motion gently while holding your brush at a 45-degree angle, and to be safe, make sure you feel the bristles on the gums.

2. Make sure you brush all surfaces of every tooth

3. Clean inside front teeth with the tip of the brush head.

4. Refresh your breath and get rid of bacteria by brushing your tongue.

Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time.

Brushing does not clean between teeth or under the gum line, so it is best to floss once a day. Plaque colonies are continually building up in these spaces, and can be destroyed by flossing, thus preventing gum and bone deterioration.

1. Take 12-16 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches of floss between the hands.

2. With a sawing motion, gently press the floss down between the teeth.

3. To get the floss under the gum line wrap it into a C-shape around each tooth and move it up and down. Clean both sides of each tooth.

Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.

These are simple things you can do to preserve dental health. Of course, visiting your dentist a couple times a year will add to the preventive measures you take yourself.