Oral hygiene described by Michael Shashaty, DDS in Encino

14649 Victory Blvd, #21, Van Nuys, CA, (818) 905-1515

:: DAILY ORAL HYGIENE

:: MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do for your teeth and gums. Most dental problems are caused by plaque, which is a sticky layer of microorganisms, food particles and other organic matter that forms on teeth. Bacteria in plaque produce acids that cause cavities. Plaque also leads to periodontal (gum) disease. Plaque formation starts after every meal. And since brushing is efficient in removing plaque; it is important to brush after every meal to maintain a clean mouth. Daily preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing, will help stop problems before they develop and is much less painful, and expensive, than treating conditions that have been allowed to progress. So the most important thing one can do to maintain good oral health is to brush and floss your teeth regularly.

BRUSHING TEETH:

Brushing of teeth requires knowing how to brush properly. Tilt the brush at an angle against the gumline and sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline towards the teeth. In a twisting motion, allow the bristles to contact the gum and then swipe the bristles along the teeth. Few strokes are sufficient in each area of the mouth, and all areas need to be brushed.
Improper brushing in Horizontal and vertical motions can damage the teeth and may cause root abrasion and gum recession. Remember to ask your dentist for a live demonstration in your next visit.

Many toothpastes are available in the market with fluoride being a valuable additive to the toothpaste, due to its role to reduce the incidence of decay. Medium hardness bristles of the toothbrush provide adequate strength for cleansing, and evenly cut bristles assures a equal sweeping pressure on the tooth surface. A flat handle is also recommended because it can best help to control the brush head to maneuvers in the posterior areas of the mouth. To keep your toothbrush and yourself healthy, make sure you let it dry out between uses. Toothbrushes can be breeding grounds for germs, fungus and bacteria, which after a while can build up to significant levels. After using your toothbrush, shake it vigorously under tap water and store it in an upright position so that it can air out. A toothbrush needs to be replaced when bristles are no longer straight, thereby brushing becomes less efficient, replacement is also needed when deposits start accumulating on its surfaces. Kids Toothbrush should have a large handle to ease grasping and a small head to ease access, some attractive designs are available in the market.

FLOSSING:

Flossing removes plaque between the teeth where a toothbrush is unable to reach. The dental floss is available in the markets in many forms and flavors. Waxed or meshed floss are preferred because of their greater ability to remove plaque. Flossing is done by sliding the floss back and forth on the side surfaces between the teeth and slightly below the gum line. Hold the floss around the front and back of one tooth, making it into a "C" shape. This will wrap the floss around the side edge of that tooth. Gently move the floss toward the base of the tooth and up into the space between the tooth and gum. Move the floss up and down with light to firm pressure to wipe the plaque in that area.
Care should be taken to avoid hurting the gum by forceful thrust. Transient bleeding suggest a congested tissue and the increased need for flossing, and that one should implement flossing on a regular routine. However, improper flossing technique could be harmful. Flossing requires a certain amount of dexterity and thought. So don't rush, and take your time. Do not press so hard that you injure the gum. Do not snap the floss in or you could cut your gums.
We can help you customize your home care of your teeth to your individual situation and needs. Such as selecting the proper types of toothbrush and toothpaste, and reviewing your brushing technique, and help you master using the floss, and review the use and efficacy of oral hygiene tools and gadgets.

NUTRITION:

Food is fertile substance for bacterial growth, your meals content and frequency may have an effect on your plaque build up. Avoid sticky snacks especially theses high in sugar and starch such as candies and chips, unless you brush immediately after eating such food. If you must eat foods high in sugar or starch, try to eat them during meals rather than between meals, and avoid any foods that stick to your teeth as these can produce more plaque. Most meals already contain acid-producing ingredients, so the less you expose your teeth to these ingredients, the less plaque acids attack your tooth enamel. Also, saliva production rises during meals, helping rinse food from the mouth.
Acidic beverages, like soft drinks (8% Acid ), fruit juices like lemonade, orange juice, cranberry juice, all can demineralize tooth enamel and sensitize root dentin, however, immediate rinsing with plain water will neutralize the acids, and help minimize their sensitizing touch on the tooth.
If children do not eat a balanced diet, their teeth may not develop properly. In order for them to develop strong, decay-resistant teeth, children need a balanced diet with emphasis on calcium, phosphorous and proper levels of fluoride. Calcium rich food such as milk, cheese and meat are essential ingredients needed for teeth formation only in the developmental stage in children.
Frequent snacking can be our teeth�s biggest enemy. How often you snack also matters; plaque forms after each snack attacking tooth enamel, making it weak. That�s when cavities can start!
Chewing gum can be a practical aid when brushing is not a convenient practice after meals, the selection of a sugar free gum, is imperative to achieve a benefit, and to avoid the harmful effect of sugar. Smoking and alcohol dramatically increase chances for oral cancer, avoid them.

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