oral hygiene
Hygiene
Oral hygiene is the most important part of any dental treatment plan. In order to maintain a beautiful smile, you must look after your teeth and gums on a regular basis. Only through brushing and flossing on a daily basis, regular visits to your dentist and taking care of any appliances you may be wearing, will your oral hygiene remain in good shape. We at Centennial Smiles believe in preventing the problem before it becomes a more serious problem to treat and that is why we recommend you follow some of the simple guidelines to keep you smiling and also keep your teeth for life!
Brushing
Tooth brushing is one of the most important aspects of good oral hygiene. Others include flossing, diet and visiting the dentist regularly. Many people question their dentist as to which brand or type of brush is the best to use. Many have personal preferences, however, what is agreed on most is that a soft brush is best. Medium or hard can cause damage and wear to the soft tissues surrounding the teeth, as well as unnecessary wear to the tooth’s outer surface called enamel. Brushes should be replaced often, usually after three months. Ideally, one should brush after each meal, but at least mornings and before bedtime should be made part of one’s normal routine.
Basic Brushing Tips
There are a few different methods considered acceptable when brushing your teeth. Whatever method you use, take the time to brush thoroughly with a recommended toothpaste every day. We recommend the following method to help maintain for dental health and easily getting rid of plaque:
- Place the head of your toothbrush beside your teeth, with the brush tips at a 45O angle against your gum.
- Move the brush back and forth in short, semi-circle strokes several times.
- Brush the outer surfaces of each tooth, top and bottom, keeping the bristles angled against your gum.
- Use the same method on the inside surfaces of all the teeth, still using short back and forth strokes.
- It is important to brush the chewing surfaces of the teeth and they will be constantly in contact with everything you put in to your mouth.
- You must also clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth by tilting the brush vertically and make several gentle up and down strokes with the front part of the brush.
- You should not forget your tongue, brushing it will help freshen your breath and clean your mouth by removing bacteria.
Basic Flossing Tips
An essential part of your routine, flossing removes plaque from between the teeth, areas where gum disease can begin. It can sometimes feel a little awkward to floss, talk to your dentist and follow the tips below to help you feel more comfortable in maintaining your oral health.
- Wind roughly 20cm of floss around middle fingers of each hand. Hold each end of the floss between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving about 2cm to 3cm of length in between. You should use your thumbs to direct the floss between your upper teeth.
- Keeping the 2cm to 3cm length of floss nice and firm between fingers, use index fingers to direct the floss between the lower teeth.
- Gently guide the floss between the teeth by using a zigzag motion. It is important to remember not snap the floss between your teeth but using a smooth and flowing motion around each side of the tooth.
- Slide the floss up and down against your tooth surface and under the gum. This may feel awkward but it is important to get underneath the tooth to clean those areas.