How often do you brush and floss, and do you take time to do so thoroughly and properly? We know that taking the time to brush and floss each day can safeguard your smile, so we want to make sure you do so the right way! In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about how to improve your brushing and flossing habits.
The Risks of Plaque Buildup
You need to brush and floss daily to help control plaque buildup by removing the particles of food and drink left behind on and between the teeth. Otherwise, plaque buildup will coat the teeth and harden into tartar with time. This sticky layer then increases the risk of bad breath, stained teeth, cavities, and even periodontal disease. But with daily care, you can limit buildup until you can see us for a dental cleaning during your six-month appointment. Along with better care at home, you can also help by lowering the amount of sugar and starch in your diet!
Taking Time to Brush Properly
You should use a toothbrush with soft bristles as opposed to medium or hard bristles. That way if you clean your teeth too hard you don’t inadvertently damage your enamel or cause gum irritation and recession. You should also use a fluoride toothpaste, which can help strengthen the outer enamel to make cavities less likely to form. Be sure you clean your teeth for two minutes when you wake up, and then do so again before you go to bed each night. This is helpful for people of all ages, so make sure your kids are cleaning their teeth too. You can assist them as needed!
Always Floss
Even more vital is flossing! This involves cleaning between the teeth. You can use tape, string, or a pick, just as long as you clean up and down each side of every tooth and dip beneath the gum line each time. These actions remove what a toothbrush alone cannot, and can help fight the onset of gingivitis and gum disease.
Be sure you do this daily, and try to avoid too much sugar in your food and drink choices too. You also need to see our team for a checkup and cleaning every six months, so we can monitor your smile for signs of trouble, and also remove all plaque and tartar completely with a dental cleaning. If you have any questions about improving your at-home oral hygiene routine, then contact our office today.
Dental Impressions Offers Tips for Better Homecare Habits
Our team wants to help improve your oral health with better homecare habits. To schedule your appointment for a checkup and cleaning, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
