Some diseases and conditions can make tooth decay and tooth loss more likely. Tooth decay is destruction of the tooth structure and it can affect the outer coating or enamel of the tooth and the dentin layer as well. Teeth can decay when carbohydrate-rich foods such as cakes, soda, candy, milk, bread etc., are left on them. The bacteria residing in the mouth convert these foods into acids and gradually form plaque deposit. Plaque dissolves the enamel layer of the teeth and creates holes, termed as cavities.
Better at-home care lets you get a good deal of control over your oral health. Regular and proper blushing and flossing are always the first steps to follow. Practicing basic dental care is essential for preventing tooth decay and also a range of other common dental problems. Here is all you need to know to achieve healthier teeth.
Tips for Brushing
Almost all of us would have learned to brush our teeth during our childhood. We have followed the same brushing technique into our adulthood too. However, the truth is that a lot of us learned to brush the incorrect way. Even if we did learn the right way, we may not have stuck to it. Brushing the right way can be tricky. You want to remove plaque without applying too much pressure on your teeth and gums.
The modified bass technique is the general method of brushing for adults. Until they are nine or ten, children should not brush without their parent’s supervision. Listed herewith are some essential points related to brushing.
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How often should you brush? Brush at least two times a day (but not more than thrice either). One of these times should be before going to bed. Your mouth tends to get drier when you sleep, making it easier for bacteria to develop. It is also essential that you brush your teeth first thing in the morning.
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How long should you brush? Brush for at least two minutes, which is the minimum time you will need to clean all of your teeth. Ensure you brush each tooth thoroughly.
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How long can you use a toothbrush? Not more than three months. Change your toothbrush once every three months or earlier if the bristles wear away. If you bristles flare too soon, note that it indicates you may be brushing too hard.
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What type of toothbrush should you use? It is recommended to always use a toothbrush with soft or extra-soft bristles. Brushes with rigid bristles can damage the enamel layer and the gums as well.
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Electric or manual toothbrush? Electric toothbrushes are good alternative to manual brushes, but they are not always a necessity. Power assisted toothbrushes are ideal for individuals who do not always use proper brushing technique. They are also a good choice for people with physical limitations who may find brushing difficult. If you are using an electric toothbrush, use it for at least two minutes and ensure you do not press too hard.
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Set a standard routine – Have a routine standard for brushing and make sure you follow the same pattern every day. This will let you cover each area of your mouth without skipping. For instance, you can brush the outsides of your teeth from right to left starting from the top row, and then move on the insides brushing left to right. Brush your chewing surfaces also. Repeat the same technique on your lower set of teeth.
Tips for Flossing
Many adults do not know how to floss. As children, most of us learned only to brush, but not to floss. Flossing is essential to promote healthy gums and it is better late than never to start flossing. Here are some general tips on flossing.
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How often should you floss? Floss one time every day. If you tend to have more gaps between teeth, you may floss more than once.
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What is the best time to floss? Generally, flossing before going to bed is ideal. However, find the time you are likely to be more convenient with. This way, you are inclined to floss regularly.
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What type of floss should I use? There are different types of floss such as ribbon and thread, flavored and unflavored, and waxed and unwaxed. Try the types and choose one that works best for you. Waxed types are suitable for individuals with very closely spaced teeth while people with rough tooth edges can choose the tough, shred-resistant types.
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How much floss should I use? Use as much floss as you need to clean between every tooth on both sides. Sometimes, you may need to floss a tooth more than once to completely remove all food particles.
Toothpaste – More than Just Cleaning
Toothpastes do more than just cleaning your teeth. They have special ingredients that work to control plaque and tartar, prevent decay, whiten teeth, help sensitive teeth, and protect gums. Most toothpastes contain fluoride, an ingredient that has been proven to prevent the occurrence of cavities. Fluoride containing toothpastes also control already-formed small cavities from getting bigger, and reverse early decay. Special tartar-control toothpastes are recommended for those individuals who experience quick tartar buildup. Whitening toothpastes are good for those with surface tooth stains.
Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay
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Brush your teeth at least two times a day or after every meal (maximum three times) and especially in the night before you sleep, with toothpaste that contains fluoride.
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Eat balanced and nutritious meals and avoid snacking on carbohydrate-rich foods such as chips and chocolates that may stick and remain on the tooth surface. If you eat foods that are sticky, ensure you brush your teeth as soon as possible.
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Avoid foods that contain sugar. Sugar promotes the growth of plaque.
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Use inter-dental cleaners or a dental floss to clean between your teeth every day. Flossing removes bacteria that are present in the gaps.
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Clean your tongue regularly. Tongue-cleaning is especially important for people who smoke or individuals whose tongues are deeply grooved or coated.
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Drink fluoridated water. It is recommended that children drink at least one pint of fluoridated water to prevent tooth decay.
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Ask your dentist about the use of supplemental fluoride for strengthening your teeth.
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Check with your dentist about dental sealants. Sealants are protective plastic coatings that are coated on the molars or chewing surfaces of your back teeth to prevent decay.
Sara is a web enthusiast and a passionate blogger who dreams, observes, and listens. She blogs on various topics including home improvement, technology, photography, health and more. At present she blogs for Super Smile, which focuses on quality and exceptional orthodontics. They excel in providing incognito lingual braces Canberra, orthodontic braces, Invisalign, orthopedics, plates and more.
Manjitsingh Bhalla says
Tooth decay is an ever possibly preventable tooth mishap that with proper teeth cleaning techniques can be largely ensured. Bacterial invasion on teeth will certainly lead to a hardened tooth plaque – the pale, yellowish stains. If left unclean, it would more likely produce deadly oral problems such as tooth sensitivity, gum diseases and more unfortunately tooth lost.
Tips shown on ideal brushing, flossing techniques, appropriate toothpaste, fluoridate water intake, inter-dental cleaner and some dietary nourishments are highly acceptable.