If you want to have healthy and strong teeth and gums it is important to take care of your teeth. Strong teeth and gums are important for more than being able to chew and enjoy food. They are important for a healthy smile as well as for speech. Keeping your teeth in their best condition is vital for your overall physical health as well as your mental health. Below we discuss how to clean teeth and how to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy.

Taking Care of Your Teeth and Mouth

1.    Tooth Decay

One of the basics of teeth care is preventing tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) breaks down. The breakdown is a result of the production of acids by bacteria in plaque and tartar. Plaque is that sticky film that forms on the teeth and gums. When it is allowed to build up it forms tartar. Plaque and tartar consist of bacteria, food debris and other particles.

The best way to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria in the mouth is by brushing teeth twice a day. For best results, use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. The fluoride in the toothpaste helps to preserve the structure of the teeth.

2.    Gum Disease

Teeth cleaning is essential for preventing oral health conditions such as gum disease. This gum disease results when plaque is allowed to build up on and under the gum line. The bacteria infect both the gum and the bone that support the teeth. In the early stages, the gum becomes tender, red and bleeds. At this stage, gum disease is referred to as gingivitis. This can be treated by flossing and brushing daily.

If the infection of the gum is not addressed the disease will progress to become periodontitis. This is a more serious type of gum disease that involves sores in the mouth, bleeding gums, tooth loss and chewing problems.

3.    Do thorough Cleaning of Your Teeth and Gums

It is important to learn the right and recommended way to clean your teeth in order to prevent cavities and gum disease.  Use a soft bristle brush to gently brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day; in the morning and in the evening before you go to sleep. Use circular motions while brushing your teeth as well as short back and forth strokes to ensure effective cleaning.

While brushing helps to get rid of plaque and food debris on the surface of the teeth, it isn’t effective at getting rid of food stuck in between the teeth and gums. Flossing is necessary to get rid of this food debris. You should floss at least once a day and rinse your mouth with clean water after flossing.

4.    Dentures

A little more care and attention should be paid to your oral hygiene when you have dentures. Avoid eating crunchy foods as these will be trapped under your dentures and can cause injury to your gum. Clean your dentures daily using a soft brush and the care products recommended by your dentist. Your dentures should be soaked in water or a cleansing liquid overnight.

5.    Dry Mouth

This is a condition in which you don’t produce enough saliva in order to maintain a moist environment in your mouth. This can make it difficult to eat, taste and even speak. It also increases the risk of developing tooth decay and oral fungal infections.

You can counter the effects of dry mouth by sipping on water or other sugarless drinks throughout the day. Avoid smoking, soft drinks and caffeine which can make the problem worse. You can also ask your dentist for recommendations for artificial saliva to help keep your mouth moist.

6.    Seek Low-Cost Dental Care

Be sure to see a dentist at least twice a year for routine dental care. If you’re searching for an affordable dentist Kenmore residents trust for the best care, contact us at Emerson DDS to schedule consultation and learn how we can help.