Useful Home Care Tips for Healthier Teeth and Gums
Regular home dental care can prevent decay and cavity formation to a large extent. At-home care is even more important now during the COVID pandemic when we may be restricted at home without easy access to a dental office such as Quail Lakes Dental Care.
Consistent Daily Care Routine
A regular, consistent dental hygiene routine goes a long way in preventing problems. Ensure that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush as stiff bristles can result in abrasive brushing action that degrades tooth enamel. Brushing when we wake up clears away the plaque that has accumulated over the night when saliva production is low. You may be surprised to learn how quickly tooth enamel can demineralize due to oral bacteria buildup.
While brushing first thing in the morning gets rid of foul morning breath, brushing at night eliminates all the plaque, food debris, and deposits accumulated during the day. Do not rush the process; brush for at least two full minutes and spend at least 50 seconds on each quadrant. Make sure you brush the front as well as back surfaces of the teeth. Flossing keeps away bad breath.
Despite diligent and attentive brushing and flossing, there are hard-to-reach areas of the oral cavity where plaque buildup is unavoidable. Our friendly dentist in Stockton, CA, can eliminate cavity-causing tartar deposits during a professional cleaning.
Everything about Toothbrushes
Toothbrush bristles wear out in about three months, and this is why it’s advisable to replace your toothbrush four times a year. Electric toothbrushes are a suitable option for the elderly who find it difficult to hold or move a toothbrush due to arthritis. Electric toothbrushes are associated with superior plaque removal and keep your gums, teeth, and tongue cleaner.
The constant motion helps apply equal pressure to all your teeth and allows for thorough, longer brushing times, which is not always the case with manual brushes. For example, a right-handed person may brush the left side of the oral cavity better than the right-hand side.
Regular exams, cleanings, and timely treatment at Quail Lakes Dental Care, combined with daily home dental care, can prevent teeth and gum problems from deteriorating into emergencies.