Of all the things you do everyday, brushing and flossing are two of the most important. Through regular oral care, you can protect your smile from common oral health problems by removing bacteria and plaque from around the teeth and gums. And because medical studies have linked a common problem like gum disease to other kinds of health problems, brushing and flossing will also help you support your overall wellbeing.
Now that you know how important brushing and flossing are, it’s time to ask yourself: Are you doing both correctly?
For optimal oral health, we recommend brushing for about 120 seconds, or two minutes, making sure that you spend equal amounts of time on your upper and lower teeth, and on both the inner and outer surfaces of your teeth. Brushing is also more effective when you hold the brush at a 45 degree angle and apply firm but gentle pressure as you scrub. Brushing the surface of your tongue will help you prevent bad breath by cleaning bacteria off of it.
How often should you brush? We tell patients to brush at least twice a day, but preferably after any time you eat. You should also floss at least once a day to remove leftover pieces of food. For extra protection, end your routine with an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash. Following these steps will help you enjoy good oral health in between visits.
Do you have other questions about brushing and flossing? Don’t hesitate to call Robison Dental Group in Canton. We would be happy to answer your questions or schedule an appointment for you. We serve patients from Canton, Michigan, Ann Arbor, Northville, Westland, and Plymouth.
We think of bad breath as being caused by the foods we eat. But for patients who struggle with frequent bad breath, the cause may be gum disease instead.
Did you know there’s a connection between your oral health and your overall wellbeing? Many people don’t, but it’s true. Recent medical research has revealed that gum disease, a very common oral health condition, has also been connected to a variety of other health problems, including:
Do you experience headaches on a regular basis? Then you could be struggling with an oral health issue known as TMJ syndrome. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. You have two of these joints, one located under each ear. Misalignment or stress can aggravate these joints, causing symptoms like headache, ear pain, dizziness, difficulty chewing, and clicking or popping in the jaw.
Do you avoid going to the dentist? Many people do, often because of anxiety. But skipping appointments, whether a simple checkup or a more advanced procedure, is a bad idea. In the absence of care, you could develop cavities, gum disease, or another serious oral health condition.
At some point, our smiles will experience some amount of staining. Popular beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, fruit juice, soda, and more can all cause stained or discolored teeth. Tobacco use can also contribute, and even aging itself.
When picking a dental office, choosing one that can help you and your entire family is important. For one thing, you want your little one to see a dentist you already know and trust. But convenience is also important. Being able to schedule back-to-back appointments for yourself and your child will make it easier to make regular care a priority.
When you think about January, you think about fresh starts. But fresh starts aren’t limited to resolutions to exercise more or eat better. Doesn’t your smile deserve to have a fresh start?