Brushing and Flossing
Brushing and flossing regularly are an important part of you daily routine.
Healthy teeth and gums are just as important when you get older as they are when you're young. Adults can often be faced with different types of dental problems. The good news is, however, with regular dental care, you should be able to keep your teeth all your life.
What sort of problems may I face?
Bleeding gums
Gum disease is the most common dental problem faced by people over 18 years of age.
The early signs of gum disease are:
gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
red, puffy gums
This early stage of the disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, the sticky, nearly colourless film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth and around the gumline. The bacteria in the plaque produce chemicals which cause the gums to become inflamed.
If gingivitis is not treated quickly, it may lead to a more serious form of gum disease, periodontitis. This more advanced stage basically involves the inflammation of the the tooth's supporting fibers. As the inflammation spreads, it causes the gums to pull away from the tooth, resulting in pockets around the tooth. These pockets trap plaque under the gumline. Unless treated quickly, the bone supporting the tooth may be destroyed causing the tooth to become loose, fall out or require removal.
How can I prevent gingivitis and periodontitis?
Daily thorough brushing and flossing to remove plaque is essential. Regular dental visits are also important.
Tooth brushing techniques
To avoid plaque build up it is important to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums at least twice a day. Remember, each tooth has five surfaces - a front, back, two sides and a top. The only sure way to prevent dental disease is to clean every surface. It is often helpful to use a disclosing solution to identify areas where plaque is being missed. There are many different toothbrushing techniques available and it is best to ask your dental professional to advise you of the one that is right for you.
The following is a guide
Use a soft toothbrush and begin by placing the bristles at a 45 degree angle to the gumline of your upper teeth. Gently jiggle the brush or move it in tiny circles over the tooth and gum. It is important to spend about 10 seconds on each tooth. Move the brush systematically around the mouth brushing all outside and inside surfaces this way. For the chewing surfaces, use a light back and forth motion.
When should I replace my toothbrush?
You should replace your toothbrush about every three months. Worn out or shaggy toothbrushes are not as effective in removing plaque from your teeth and gums.
Flossing teeth effectively
Flossing your teeth should be done once a day. This helps to remove plaque that builds up between the teeth and under the gumline and cannot be removed by a toothbrush.
There are several different types of floss for different purposes. If you have a bridge, implant or braces, floss threaders are available to help you floss in awkward places. Superfloss has a fluffy length that cleans the area between a bridge and the gumline. Sometimes the use of a flosser is easier than a length of floss.
Begin by taking about 30-45cms of floss and winding the ends around the centre fingers. Next, grip the floss firmly with the index finger and thumb.
Guide the floss between the teeth using a gentle sawing motion. Using an up and down motion, scrape the sides of the teeth but be careful not to snap the floss onto the gums. Unwind the floss when needed to ensure that a clean piece is used for every tooth. Don't forget to floss between the back teeth as well as the front teeth.
If your gums bleed or feel tender after flossing, do not be alarmed. The gums often take a little time to become accustomed to flossing. If the bleeding or soreness lasts for more than a few days, check with your dental professional. They may recommend the use of interdental brushes to massage the gum between the teeth.
If your teeth are crowded, you may find it easier to use a teflon dental ribbon to avoid shredding and breaking of the floss.
Visit your dental professional regularly
Regular dental visits can prevent minor problems from becoming major ones. Your dental professional will be able to detect early signs of tooth decay and gum disease. If you have any problem areas with your brushing or flossing ask your dental professional to assist you.
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