The Basics of Home Dental Hygiene

It’s interesting, sort of. (Well, not really to Dr. Egger…) Most people probably pay more attention to the regular maintenance of their cars than they do to the maintenance of their teeth. Considering that healthy teeth are an important component of everyday life, and you can take I-Ride instead of your car, if need be, that makes no sense.

Well, if you want healthy teeth, it doesn’t take much. All you need is a consistent brushing and flossing regimen and that’s pretty much it. Let’s make sure you know what you should be doing.

What is the proper way of brushing my teeth?

Your teeth need to be brushed at least twice a day, but not more than 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. You should brush for around two minutes, 30 seconds per quarter of your mouth. That can seem like an eternity if you’re a cursory brusher, but that’s the time recommended. Here’s how to brush teeth properly:

1. Position your toothbrush 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, and if they get you to brush better (for instance, they all have a built-in timer for two minutes) they’d be a good investment. Use a toothpaste with fluoride.  

What is the correct way of flossing my teeth?

Flossing has two purposes. It removes food debris and plaque from between the teeth, and it stimulates the gums. Floss once daily. 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 convenience, you can purchase floss holders. Mint or cinnamon flavors make no difference, but if they make you floss more often, then 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 (989) 773-3560 for an appointment.