Better Brushing and Flossing in 2022
January 6, 2022
A new year often means new changes to your routine to improve your health or to start a new hobby. This means now is a great time to make sure you’re brushing and flossing the correct way! In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist wants to talk about how to better care for your teeth and gums from home.
Brushing Your Teeth Right
First, let’s talk about your toothbrush. You should choose the option you’re comfortable using, as both manual and electric are effective means of cleaning your smile. We do recommend soft bristles, as cleaning too rough with medium or hard bristles could weaken and erode the outer tooth enamel. Next, choose a toothbrush that contains fluoride or the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Fluoride helps strengthen the outer enamel and lower the risk of tooth decay. We need to clean our teeth in the morning and then again at night for at least two minutes each session. Approach the teeth at a 45-degree angle to clean the tops and sides, and in circular motions for the front-facing ones. This is recommended for people of all ages, from kids to adults.
Flossing Every Evening
Brushing is crucial for cleaning your teeth, but this can’t reach what’s trapped between your teeth or along the gum line. This is why every evening before bed, we need to floss. Take a 20-inch length of tape and wrap each end around one of your thumbs. Then hold it tight with your index fingers. Move the tape up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line when you do. Adjust your grip to use a clean portion of tape for each tooth. For children or those with limited dexterity, a floss pick may be easier to use. You could also try a water flosser. During your next checkup and cleaning visit, we can demonstrate proper brushing and flossing for you and your family!
Watching Your Diet
What we eat and drink is a factor in our oral health too. Foods high in sugar and starch could promote plaque buildup, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. You should try to eat healthier foods and snacks! What you drink matters too, as sports drinks, energy drinks, fruit juices, and sodas all contain harmful sugars and acids that could threaten your smile. If you have any questions, then give us a call today!
Talk to Your Kansas City, MO Dentist About Daily Care
Our team wants to help you keep your smile bright and healthy! If you would like to learn more about our approach to preventive care, contact your Kansas City, MO, dentist, Dr. Lucaci, by calling 816-427-4018.