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Brushing
The best way to maintain healthy teeth and gums is with good home cleaning habits. Proper brushing and flossing is your best defense against tooth decay. Proper brushing consists of about three to five minutes of brushing. Be sure to brush all areas of the teeth, inside, outside on the biting surfaces and along the gum line as well. Plaque is the substance responsible for tooth decay, so a good brushing at least twice a day will help to prevent future dental problems. Deposits of plaque eventually forms tartar. Once tartar has formed on the teeth your dentist can only remove it. Use a soft round bristled toothbrush for the best results as it won’t scrub away the enamel on your teeth nor irritate the gums. Gently massage your gums while brushing, this helps to clean them as well as increasing circulation in the area which is helpful in preventing gum disease.
Flossing
A major cause of tooth loss today is due to periodontal disease or gingivitis as it is commonly called. One of the most difficult areas to maintain cleanliness is in between the teeth. Flossing twice a day is recommended to remove plaque from between teeth before it can become tartar. Flossing becomes like second nature once you get in the habit, some people floss while watching tv. Use a gentle sawing motion to work the floss between the teeth, when you reach the gum line rub the floss against the wall of the tooth to remove the plaque. Bleeding gums shouldn't worry you initially, it will take some time for the gums to be conditioned for flossing. A warm saltwater rinse helps to relieve this soreness. Be aware that bleeding and tender gums are an indication of gum disease, if these symptoms persist after one week of daily flossing contact your dentist.
Flouride
Fluoride is a nutrient which also helps to reduce tooth decay. Fluoride can be taken internally during the time that the teeth are being formed and will be incorporated into the enamel of the teeth. It is added to most toothpastes to deter the breakdown of the enamel. Dentists also can offer fouride treatments in a concentrated form. Fluoride is also effective in decreasing sensitivity of teeth. Fluoride has been a huge help in reducing dental decay.