To protect your teeth and gums, you need to take time to brush and floss your teeth properly. However, often we find people who take time to clean their teeth simply aren’t doing so properly. Which is why in today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist is talking about how to better care for your smile from home!
Brushing Your Teeth
You need to brush your teeth twice a day, first thing when you wake up and then again before going to bed. Each session should take at least two minutes to ensure you’re properly removing trapped food particles. We recommend a toothbrush that contains soft bristles, as cleaning too rough with hard or medium bristles could weaken and erode outer tooth enamel. You should approach your teeth at a 45-degree angle for the sides and tops of the teeth, and you also need to clean the front of your teeth in circular motions. This is helpful for people of all ages, from babies and toddlers to adults and seniors!
Fluoride Toothpaste
The toothpaste you use will matter too! Make sure the one you pick out has fluoride, as this naturally-occurring mineral has been shown to strengthen outer tooth enamel and prevent cavities. You can look for the word fluoride on the packaging, or for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. Try to avoid toothpastes that offer whitening ingredients, as these could contain abrasive agents that weaken outer enamel and cause sensitivity. Remember, even kids benefit from fluoride and there are age-appropriate options available. Just use a rice-sized blot for kids three and younger, and a pea-sized blots for older kids and adults.
Flossing Properly
While brushing is very effective at protecting your smile, this doesn’t always reach the particles caught between the teeth or in the gum line. Which is why everyone needs to floss each evening. Children may need a pick due to limited dexterity, and this also makes it easier for you to help clean their teeth. For older kids and adults, take an 18-inch to 20-inch length of tape, and wrap each end around one of your thumbs. Then hold it taut with your index finger, and clean up and down each side of every tooth. Dipping below the gum line when you do, as this helps remove trapped particles.
If you have any questions about how to properly brush and floss your teeth, or if you want to schedule a checkup and cleaning visit, then contact our team today.
Talk To Your Kansas City, MO Dentist About Preventive Dentistry
We would like to offer tips for fighting plaque and keeping teeth and gums strong. To find out more about how to take better care of your smile from home, then please contact your Kansas City, MO, dentist, Dr. Murphy, by calling (816) 531-8000.
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