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Tips on Proper Brushing Dentists say that the minimum time you should spend brushing your teeth is 2 minutes twice a day. Here are some tips on how to brush properly: • Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle against your gum line. Gently brush from where the tooth and gum meet to the chewing surface in short (about half-a-tooth-wide) strokes. Brushing too hard can cause receding gums, tooth sensitivity, and, over time, loose teeth. • Use the same method to brush all outside and inside surfaces of your teeth. • To clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth, use short sweeping strokes, tipping the bristles into the pits and crevices. • To clean the inside surfaces of your top and bottom front teeth and gums hold the brush almost vertical. With back and forth motions bring the front part of the brush over the teeth and gums. • Using a forward-sweeping motion, gently brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove the decay-causing bacteria that exist in these places. • Use an egg timer or play a favorite song while brushing your teeth to get used to brushing for a full 2 to 3 minutes. Some electronic toothbrushes have timers that let you know when 2 minutes are up. Facts on Flossing Brushing is important but it won't remove the plaque and particles of food between your teeth, under the gum line, or under braces. You'll need to floss these spaces at least once a day. The type of floss you choose depends on how much space you have between your teeth. Dentists usually recommend unwaxed floss because it's thinner and easier to slide through small spaces. However, studies have shown that there is no major difference in the effectiveness based on the type of floss used. With any floss, you should be careful to avoid injuring your gums. Follow these instructions: • Carefully insert the floss between two teeth, using a back and forth motion. Gently bring the floss to the gum line, but don't force it under the gums. Curve the floss around the edge of your tooth in the shape of the letter "C" and slide it up and down the side of each tooth. • Repeat this process between all your teeth, and remember to floss the back sides of your back teeth.
What is Gingivitis? Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, is the initial stage of gum disease, and the easiest to treat. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque, the soft sticky colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums. If the plaque is not removed by daily brushing and flossing, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. At this early stage in gum disease, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected. Left untreated, however, gingivitis can become periodontitis and cause permanent damage to your teeth and jaw. How do I know if I Have Gingivitis? Classic signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush. Another sign of gum disease is gums that have receded or pulled away from your teeth, giving your teeth an elongated appearance. Gum disease can cause pockets to form between the teeth and gums, where plaque and food debris collect. Some people may experience recurring bad breath or a bad taste in their mouth, even if the disease is not advanced.