Regular dental hygiene and teeth cleaning is important for both the maintenance of a healthy smile and the prevention of gum disease. At Wise Dental Centre, we recommend that you come in for regular cleanings and checkups every 6 months. During our exams, we are looking for signs of oral cancer, gum disease, and cavities. By catching these problems early, we can prevent or minimize the damage they might cause. Studies have connected gum disease to heart attacks and strokes; regular cleanings help keep your teeth and gums healthy, therefore reducing the risk of health complications.
Even if you brush and floss every day, you should still come in for regular check-ups and cleaning. If you miss any plaque while brushing, it can turn into tartar within 24-36 hours and then can only be removed by a registered dental hygienist.
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How to maintain a healthy smile at home:
Between professional dental cleanings at Wise Dental Center, you should be sure to brush and floss your teeth daily. Brushing your teeth removes plaque from the tooth's surface, while flossing is needed to remove plaque that builds up in between teeth and along the gum line.
Brushing
A proper brushing takes at least 2-3 minutes! Some electric toothbrushes have timers built in to help you brush long enough each time. The best way to brush is in a circular motion at a 45 degree angle to your gums. Be sure to pay attention to your gums, back teeth, and areas with crowns or other restorations. Brushing your tongue is also important as it helps remove bacteria that can cause bad breath.
As bacteria can build up on your brush, we recommend replacing it every 3 months.
Flossing
Using about 16 inches of floss, wrap the ends around your fingers until you have a couple inches of floss between them. Holding the floss taught, gently follow the curves of your teeth, removing debris as you go. Make sure you go below the gum line too. Use clean sections of floss as you move to each new tooth. Be sure to be gentle, as excessive force may bruise or damage your gum tissue.
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