Free Dental Directory of Diseases, Aliments and Solutions

Why You Should Floss Every Day:

Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria that stick to your teeth.  Flossing your teeth helps to remove these bacteria before they can cause cavities and gum disease.  However, if you wait longer than 24 hours to floss again, bacteria will re-attach to your teeth; thus, daily flossing is a must. To floss correctly, guide the floss around the edges of your teeth and between your teeth and gums.

The Frequency Of Having Your Teeth Cleaned:

If you have healthy teeth and gums, you should have them cleaned every six months.  If you have gum problems, have your teeth cleaned every three to four months.

Selecting A Proper Toothbrush:

A toothbrush should have soft, rounded bristles; medium, firm and hard bristles damage your gums.  The head should be the correct size for your mouth, and the handle should feel comfortable in your hand.  While some manufacturers would have you believe that power toothbrushes can perform tooth-cleaning miracles, research by Consumer Reports magazine showed that nothing at home cleans better than a plain, manual toothbrush and dental floss.  Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three months.

About Tartar-Control Toothpastes:

These toothpastes can slow the formation of tartar, a hard, decay-producing film that forms on your teeth.  However, some users report that these toothpastes cause a burning sensation and/or make their teeth feel more sensitive.  If this is also your experience, change brands or stop using this kind of toothpaste.  As with other toothpastes, don't use too much.  A small dab is all you actually require.

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