Home Dental Hygiene 101

Although Dr. Egger doesn’t find it amusing, it’s interesting that most people pay more attention to the regular maintenance on their cars than on their teeth. Think about it, if you start going over the mileage on that little sticker on your windshield you get nervous until finally you take the car in. In contrast, people sometimes go years without a regular dental exam or checkup. Considering that healthy teeth are an important component of everyday life, and you can take the bus instead of your car, if need be, that makes no sense.

But healthy teeth start at home. So, here’s Dr. Egger’s take on what you should be doing for your home dental health care.

What is the proper way of brushing my teeth?

Twice daily is the proper amount for brushing your teeth, although you can do it three times. Use a soft-bristled brush (bristles that are too stiff can damage your tooth enamel and make your gums recede) and use gentle pressure. Brushing too firmly can damage your enamel. You should brush for around two minutes, 30 seconds per quarter of your mouth. Here’s how to brush teeth properly:

1. Position your tooth brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Using small, circular strokes, gently brush the teeth while making sure that the bristles are also touching the gums. Use overlapping circles to cover all the tooth surfaces.
2. When brushing, make sure the inner, outer, and biting surfaces of the teeth are included.
3. Using the tip of the brush, clean the inner portion of your front teeth.
4. It is important to brush the tongue as well to remove existing bacteria and to freshen up your breath. And don’t miss the roof of your mouth.

Electric toothbrushes are great, but not required as long as you brush diligently. Use a toothpaste with flouride.

What is the correct way of flossing my teeth?

You should floss between your teeth once daily. Flossing has two purposes. It removes food debris and plaque from between the teeth, and it stimulates the gums. Follow these steps to properly floss your teeth:

1. Use a piece around 18 inches long. Wrap the thread around your middle fingers and leave 2 inches of thread in between your fingers.
2. Use your thumbs and forefingers to gently insert the floss in between each tooth and clean the area following a sawing motion.
3. Hold the floss in a “C” shape on each tooth as well as under the gumline. Move the thread up and down to clean every side of the tooth.

If you want more conveniece, you can purchase floss holders. Flavored floss? Hey, if mint or cinnamon flavors help to get you to actually floss, go for it!

There. That wasn’t so hard, now was it? And you don’t need to watch for a coupon for a discount or hope they don’t put the oil plug back in crooked.

Practice this hygiene routine, and come see Dr. Egger twice each year for professional cleanings and checkups. Call us at 989-773-3560 to schedule your appointment.