Improving Hygiene Skills Maximizes Removal of Disease Causing Plaque

Millions of bacteria linger in your mouth, but you shouldn’t be alarmed about it. Most of these bacteria are benign, and others are even beneficial. However, there are some that contribute to tooth decay and even periodontal gum disease, both of which damage your oral health. The disease-causing bacteria majorly feed on the thin biofilm of food leftover particles accumulated on the tooth surface. This biofilm is known as dental plaque. You need to keep plaque away from accumulating by brushing and flossing daily.

Effective Brushing And Flossing

There is what we can refer to as brushing and flossing, but there is also effective brushing and flossing. What you should aim to achieve and maintain is the latter, meaning effective brushing and flossing. And there are things that can ensure effective flossing and brushing of teeth in order to help maximize plaque removal.

When it comes to brushing, do it twice or thrice a day, unless a dentist advises otherwise. Also, do it easy because hard, aggressive scrubbing tends to damage the gums. Use a gentle, circular motion while brushing your teeth. Your toothbrush should have soft bristles because hard bristles can irritate the gums. Ensure you brush all the tooth surfaces including the biting surfaces and the nooks and crannies. Let a brushing session last about two minutes.

With flossing, do it once a day. Get a thread about 18 inches and wrap every end around the middle or index finger. Pull tight the string and use the thumbs to maneuver the thread as you ease it in between the teeth. Now, wrap the string around each tooth’s side, forming a C shape. Gently slide that floss string up and down and continue around the other teeth until you floss between each tooth.

To feel how well-done the flossing job was, you can rub the tongue against the teeth. You will be able to feel a slick and smooth surface. If you are feeling any grittiness, it means some plaque is still present. A periodontist can give a thorough cleaning of the teeth during your regular dental visits. Contact us today for a professional cleaning and more tips to keep the teeth and gums healthy.