Dental Hygiene Services
Learn how you can keep your mouth and teeth healthy between your dental visits .
Dental Hygiene Services in Fort McMurray
What is plaque?
Plaque is a film of bacteria that can accumulate along teeth where a toothbrush can’t commonly reach. Many of the top foods that you eat can cause the bacteria in your mouth to continue producing acids which can eat away at your mouth over time. Sugary foods are known to cause plaque but it can also be found in a variety of other items such as bread, crackers, cereals and more. It’s possible that you could continue experiencing sensitive and irritated gums that come as a result of heavy plaque sitting on your teeth. This issue could potentially lead to gum disease and other potential problems over time. If you are not regularly dedicating time to your oral health this can sometimes even cause your teeth to start falling out or becoming loose.
How can I get rid of plaque?
You can remove plaque by brushing everyday and having regular professional cleanings. Removing plaque build up with the help of regular cleaning and brushing your teeth two times a day with a soft bristled toothbrush for around 2 to 3 minutes, is one of the best ways to care for your teeth. Make sure you are using the right type and size of toothbrush to fit your mouth. You should also consider using a toothpaste that contains fluoride with an antimicrobial ingredient. A toothbrush unfortunately cannot reach into the tightest spaces within your mouth so it’s very important that you continue to floss between your teeth at least once a day to supplement your oral health.
How do I brush and floss my teeth?
Timberlea Dental Clinic recommends the following techniques for brushing and flossing your teeth:
Brushing
- Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
- Gently move the brush back and forth in short strokes.
- Brush the outside and inside of your tooth surfaces, as well as the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
- Remove bacteria and freshen your breath by brushing your tongue.
Flossing
- Using about 15 inches of floss, wind it around the middle fingers of each hand and hold the floss tightly between your forefingers and thumbs.
- Using a slow and soft rubbing motion, guide the floss between your teeth.
- When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
- Bring the floss back toward the contact point between the teeth and move the floss up or down the other side, making the floss conform to the shape of the tooth.
- Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions.