Gingivitis and cavities can be brought on by the bacteria that live in your mouth as plaque. One of the main causes of periodontal (gum) diseases is bacteria and plaque. You should practice good oral hygiene every day to keep your mouth healthy and clean.
Plaque: What is it?
A biofilm called plaque, which accumulates on your teeth, is teeming with bacteria. Nevertheless, even thorough brushing frequently misses the innermost corners of your mouth, leaving behind bacteria-containing residue. Certain food products, particularly sugary or starchy foods like bread, crackers, and cereal, can exacerbate these plaque-prone conditions. Additionally, plaque irritates gums, causing them to become red and sensitive. Gum disease results from all of this, where the gums separate from the teeth and create pockets that become more contaminated and pus-filled. The teeth may need to be extracted if the gum disease is not treated promptly because it can destroy the surrounding bone.
How can plaque be removed?
Regular brushing and cleaning between teeth is the best method for removing plaque. Plaque is successfully removed from your teeth’s surfaces by brushing.
Using a soft-bristled brush to brush your teeth twice a day is advised. The ideal toothbrush should fit your mouth perfectly and make it easy for you to reach every part of it. You can further prevent tooth decay by using toothpaste that contains fluoride and antimicrobial ingredients. Dentists worldwide also strongly advise flossing to prevent gum disease and to clean the spaces between teeth, which can stop plaque from accumulating there.
How should one brush and floss their teeth?
The American Dental Association suggests specific methods for brushing and flossing that are healthy.
Cleaning
- When brushing, maintain a 45-degree angle between your brush and your gums.
- Short strokes should be used to gently move the brush back and forth.
- The outer surfaces of the teeth should be brushed first, followed by the inner surfaces near the tongue, and finally the chewing surfaces.
- Cleanse the inside surfaces of the front teeth with the tip of your brush by gently moving it up and down.
- To freshen your breath and get rid of bacteria, brush your tongue.
Flossing
- Wrap the middle fingers of each hand with approximately 18 inches of floss. Grasp the floss firmly between your forefingers and thumbs.
- Make a light rubbing motion with the floss between your teeth.
- Curve the floss into a C shape against one of the teeth as it approaches the gum line. Slide it gently into the gap between the tooth and the gums.
- To conform the floss to the shape of the tooth, move it up and down the opposite side after returning it to the contact point between the teeth.
- Tightly press the floss against the tooth. Using up-and-down motions, gently massage the tooth’s side to move the floss away from the gum line.
- Apply the same technique to the remaining teeth.
What more can you do to keep your mouth healthy?
A quality mouthwash can improve oral hygiene in addition to regular brushing and flossing. Antimicrobial Antimicrobial mouthwashes lessen the activity of bacteria and plaque, which lead to gum disease and gingivitis. Mouthwashes containing fluoride also lessen and prevent tooth decay.
Before using mouthwash, be sure to speak with your dentist. Children under the age of six should not use fluoride rinses because they could swallow them. Never forget to look for age and precautionary advice on the bottle’s manufacturer’s label.