You should see our team for a checkup and cleaning every six months to keep your smile healthy and strong. But you also need to care for your smile in between these appointments! In today’s blog, your Sunny Smiles team talks about proper brushing and flossing habits.
The Dangers of Your Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Over time, the sugar and starch particles from the foods and drinks we consume can be trapped between the teeth, where harmful oral bacteria will consume them. When this happens, a bacterial byproduct known as plaque forms, and coats the teeth, hardening with time into tartar. The buildup can increase the risk of bad breath and teeth stains, but also weakens enamel to cause cavities too. The same layers can inflame the gums to cause gingivitis and gum disease. While a cleansing can remove the buildup, you can help limit the severity and safeguard your smile by brushing and flossing your teeth properly!
Brushing Your Teeth
You should brush your teeth when you wake up before you do anything else. Each session should take about two minutes to ensure you’re reaching every surface of your teeth. Be sure you use a fluoride toothpaste too, as fluoride can strengthen the weakened portions of your enamel to fight tooth decay. You also need to clean your teeth right before you go to bed too. These actions help scrub away stray particles to protect your smile from plaque buildup until we can see you for a cleaning visit. We also recommend a soft bristled toothbrush to avoid inadvertent enamel or gum damage. You can also use a manual or electric toothbrush, depending on your preference.
Flossing Daily
While brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, you also need to remove stray particles from between the teeth and along the gum line, which brushing alone may not be reach. With floss, you clean up and down each side of every tooth, dipping beneath the gum line when you do to extract trapped particles. This is essential for keeping gingivitis and gum disease at bay, or to help manage the concern to protect your smile from recession and other symptoms. You can use floss tape or a pick, and some even prefer water flossers. As long as you take time to clean between your teeth before you brush the second time, the option you use is up to you!
If you have any questions about how to properly clean your teeth each day, or about scheduling your next cleaning, then contact our team.
Schedule a Visit for an Exam Soon!
Our team wants to help you maintain good oral health with better oral hygiene habits. To schedule an appointment at Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, call us at (915) 759-7000.