Oral Hygiene Tips

At Baus Family Dentistry, we believe there are four basic rules to follow when it comes to your oral hygiene: Brushing, flossing, diet control, and visiting your dentist at least twice a year. The best way to ensure a clean and healthy smile is with brushing and flossing. Food particles can accumulate on teeth and eventually turn into plaque. The bacteria that results from this accumulation can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.

Practicing good dental hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment in the long run. In addition to regular dental visits, diet control and fluoride treatments, adults and kids should maintain a good brushing and flossing routine. Here are our suggestions for better at home techniques:

Brushing

• Step 1 — Use a soft bristled toothbrush with a small strip of fluoridated toothpaste. Place the toothbrush against the gums and teeth.
• Step 2 - Move the brush back and forth gently in short strokes. Brush the outer surfaces of each tooth, upper and lower. Repeat the same method on the inside surfaces and chewing surfaces of all the teeth.
• Step 3 - Finish by brushing the tongue to help freshen breath and remove bacteria.

Flossing

• Step 1 - Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around the middle fingers of both hands. Hold the floss lightly between the thumbs and forefingers. Use a gentle, back and forth motion to guide the floss between the teeth.
• Step 2 - Curve the floss into a C-shape and slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel resistance. Gently scrape the floss against the side of the tooth.
• Step 3 - Repeat this procedure on each tooth. Don't forget the backs of the last four teeth in each corner of the mouth.

Diet control

• The teeth, bones, and soft tissue of the mouth requires a healthy, well-balanced diet.
• A variety of foods from the five food groups help minimize and avoid cavities and other dental problems.
• Consumption of foods that contain sugars and starches should be decreased. These foods can include candies, cookies, chips, and crackers.
• Healthier foods, such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt and cheese, help promote stronger teeth.

Dental visits

You should visit your dentist twice a year, every six months. In order to maintain a healthy smile, it is vital to have professional cleanings and regular check ups. Your dentist will examine your teeth and provide an evaluation of existing dental problems and proposed treatment. If you have a dental emergency, you should call your dentist immediately.