Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums

Healthy

Emma Wise

Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy

To prepare herself for a career as an oral health professional, Ohio native Emma Wise is currently working as a dental assistant at Dentist at Winbury in Chagrin Falls. In that capacity, Emma Wise interacts with patients and assists with their treatment, including providing instructions on preventative care. Following are some tips on how to keep teeth and gums healthy.

Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy

Proper Brushing - To remove all plaque and bacteria from the mouth, brushing should last at least two minutes. Instead of brushing in a back-and-forth motion, it is ideal to brush in a circular motion with the toothbrush held at a 45-degree angle. Furthermore, toothbrushes should only be used for two to three months before being replaced.

Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy

Flossing - Dental floss helps to prevent gum disease by getting rid of pieces of food and plaque from between your teeth. If plaque builds up, the bacteria can irritate the gums and cause inflammation (swelling) Unlike a toothbrush, which cleans the tops and outer surfaces of the teeth and gums, floss is designed specifically to clean the tight spaces between the teeth and under the gums, places that a toothbrush can't reach. Floss your teeth daily using a slow and gentle sawing motion to prevent tartar buildup that can lead to gingivitis and even periodontal disease, all of which can harm the rest of the body by leading to potentially life-threatening systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory illness.

Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy

Keep the Tongue and Mouth Clean - To freshen breath and remove plaque from the tongue, use a tongue scraper daily. Bad breath is typically caused by bacteria buildup on the tongue. When choosing a mouthwash, those containing fluoride are excellent in helping to prevent tooth decay.