Oral Hygiene

Why is Oral Hygiene so Important?

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth and gums. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. After eating or drinking, the bacteria contained in the plaque release acids. Continual release of these acids through snacking or sipping sugary drinks,eventually causes tooth decay. If the plaque is not removed, it begins to harden into a substance called calculus or tartar.

Both plaque and calculus contain bacteria as well as toxins that cause infection and disease of the gum tissue. Gum disease, known as periodontal disease,is a serious disease and will eventually lead to tooth loss.Emerging studies show that periodontal disease is linked to many other life-altering health conditions and diseases. By thoroughly brushing and flossing you can remove these germs and help prevent both decay and periodontal disease.

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. Research studies estimate that over 75% of the adult population has some form of periodontal disease.Tobacco use also significantly increases the risk of developing periodontal disease, and can even counteract treatments.

We recommend flossing first, then brushing.Typically, you should brush at least 2 times daily, ideally 3 times per day, and floss each and every day. Always floss and brush thoroughly before going to sleep.

How to Floss

Periodontal disease usually appears between the teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing is a very effective way to remove plaque from those surfaces. However, it is important to develop the proper technique. The following instructions will help you, but remember it takes time and practice.

Start with a piece of floss (the satiny type is best) about 18-20″ long.

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 then curve it into a C-shape against 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 each side of one tooth. Remember there are two tooth surfaces that need to be cleaned in each space. Continue to floss each side of all the 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.Do not forget the back side of the last tooth on both sides, upper and lower–use a “shoe-shine stroke” for these areas.

If you have areas that seem impossible to reach, various flossing aids, such as those with a handle, superfloss, floss threaders,plus tiny brushesare available.

Do not be alarmed if during the first week of regular flossing your gums bleed or are a little sore. If your gums hurt while flossing you could be doing it too hard or pinching the gum. As you continue tofloss daily and remove the plaque your gums will heal and the bleeding should stop.

Caring for Sensitive Teeth

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.

If you have any pain while brushing or have any questions about how to brush properly, please be sure to call the office at (440) 234-9063.

How to Brush

Dr. Majcher and his staff recommend using a soft tooth brush. Position the brush at a 45 degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently move the brush in the direction in which the teeth grow (brush downward on the upper teeth and upward on the lower teeth)several times using small, gentle strokes. Use this method on both the outsides and insides of your teeth, although you may need to turn the brush vertically on the insides of the front teeth. Use light pressure while putting the bristles between the teeth, but not so much pressure that you feel any discomfort.

Always brush your gum tissue as well as your teeth. Next you will 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 any plaque you might have loosened while brushing.

How Do I Take Care ofMy Denture or Partial?

Handling a partial or denture requires care. It’s a good idea to stand over a folded towel or a sink of water just in case you accidentally drop the appliance. Brush your denture or partial each day to remove food deposits and plaque. Brushing your partial or denture helps prevent the appliance from becoming permanently stained. It’s best to use a brush that is designed for cleaning dentures,which has bristles that are arranged to fit the shape of a partial or denture. A regular, soft-bristled toothbrush is also alright to use. Avoid using a brush with hard bristles, which can scratch your denture or partial. A denture or partial could lose its proper shape if it is not kept moist, so at night the partial and/or denture should be placed in soaking solution or water. If your partial has metal attachments, Dr. Majcher may advise you not to use a soaking solution, as they could become discolored. Never drop or become careless with your partial or denture.

Choosing Oral Hygiene Products

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. We see excellent results with the power brush called Sonicare http://Sonicare.com. Oral irrigators (water spraying devices) will rinse your mouth thoroughly, but will not remove plaque. You need to brush and floss in conjunction with the irrigator, but it is “must have” for those with ordontic bands.

There are also tiny brushes (interproximal toothbrushes) that clean between your teeth. If these are used improperly you could injure the gums, so discuss proper use with either Dr. Majcher or the hygienist.

Fluoride toothpastes and mouth rinses, if used in conjunction with brushing and flossing, can reduce tooth decay as much as 40%. Remember, these rinses are not recommended for children under six years of age. Tartar control toothpastes will reduce tartar above the gum line, but gum disease starts below the gumline so these products have not been proven to reduce the early stage of gum disease.

Anti-plaque rinses, approved by the American Dental Association, contain agents that may help bring early gum disease under control. Use these in conjunction with brushing and flossing.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Daily brushing and flossing will often keep dental calculus to a minimum, but a professional cleaning will remove calculus in places your toothbrush and floss have missed. Your visit to our office is an important part of your program to prevent gum disease and help you keep your teeth for your lifetime.