Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum disease (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by learning and practicing good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, and using them daily.
Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth and sticks at and below the gum line. Thorough daily brushing and flossing can remove plaque and help prevent periodontal disease.
If you have any pain while brushing or have any questions about how to brush properly, please be sure to call the office at 360-734-9928.
Dr. Repanich recommends using a soft or extra soft tooth brush. To brush the outside of you teeth, open slightly, keeping the cheeks and lips relaxed. Position the brush at a 45 degree angle along the gumline of the teeth. Gently move the brush in a circular motion several times using small, gentle strokes to brush the outer surfaces of your teeth. Use light pressure while putting the bristles between the teeth, but not so much pressure that you feel any discomfort.
When you are done cleaning the outside surfaces of all your teeth, open wide and follow the same directions to clean the inside of the back teeth.
To clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the brush vertically. Make several gentle back-and-forth strokes over each tooth. Don't forget to gently brush the surrounding gum tissue.
Clean the biting surfaces of your teeth by using short, gentle strokes. Change the position of the brush as often as necessary to reach and clean all surfaces. Try to watch yourself in the mirror to make sure you clean each surface. After you are done, rinse vigorously to remove plaque loosened while brushing.
Periodontal disease usually appears between the teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing is a very effective way to remove plaque from those areas. However, it is important to develop the proper technique. The following instructions will help you. Remember it takes time and practice.
Start with a piece of floss (waxed is easier) about 18” long. Lightly wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand. Wrap the rest of the floss around the middle finger of the other hand.
To clean the upper teeth extend the floss over the end of the thumb of each hand allowing up to an inch of floss between fingers. Gently insert the floss tightly between the teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Do not force the floss or try to snap it in to place. Bring the floss to the gumline pull forward into a C-shape against the back of one tooth. Slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth until you feel light resistance. Move the floss up and down on the side of one tooth. Then push back to floss the front side of the next tooth. Remember there are two tooth surfaces that need to be cleaned in each space. Continue to floss each side of all the upper teeth. Be careful not to cut the gum tissue between the teeth. As the floss becomes soiled, turn from one finger to the other to get a fresh section.
To clean between the bottom teeth, guide the floss using the forefingers of both hands. Do not forget the back side of the last tooth on both sides, upper and lower.
When you are done, rinse vigorously with water to remove plaque and food particles. Do not be alarmed if during the first week of flossing your gums bleed or are a little sore. If your gums hurt while flossing you could be using too much pressure, pinching the gum or your gums are inflammed. As you floss daily and remove the plaque your gums will heal and the bleeding should stop.
Sometimes after dental treatment, teeth are sensitive to hot and cold. This should not last long, but only if the mouth is kept clean. If the mouth is not kept clean the sensitivity will remain and could become more severe. If your teeth are especially sensitive consult with your doctor. They may recommend a medicated toothpaste or mouth rinse made especially for sensitive teeth.
There are so many products on the market it can become confusing and choosing between all the products can be difficult. Here are some suggestions for choosing dental care products that will work for most patients.
Automatic and “high-tech” electronic toothbrushes are safe and effective for the majority of the patients and we see excellent results with consistent use.
Waterpik oral irrigators can aid in cleaning around braces, bridges and implants. You need to brush and floss in conjunction with the oral irrigator.
Rubber tips are used to massage the gums after brushing. There are also tiny brushes (interproximal brushes) that clean between your teeth. If these are used improperly you could injure the gums, so discuss proper use with your hygienist or doctor.
Daily brushing and flossing will keep dental calculus to a minimum, but a professional cleaning will remove calculus in places your toothbrush and floss have missed or cannot access. Your visit to our office is an important part of your program to prevent gum disease and keep your teeth for your lifetime.
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Address: 2814 Flint Street • Bellingham, WA 98226 • Phone: 360-734-9928
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