The ABCs of Good Oral Hygiene Habits

The ABCs of Good Oral Hygiene Habits
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_A._Harmen] Chris A. Harmen

Your oral hygiene habits are the key to a healthy mouth and smile. Whether you're ready to teach your children about good oral hygiene habits, or know that you need to kick some of your own bad habits to the curb, this article will help you brush up on the ABCs of good oral hygiene habits.

A: Brushing

Brushing is hands down the most effective method for removing the plaque from your teeth that can lead to decay and cavities. Plaque is a sticky, colorless substance that clings to your teeth. When combined with food particles and bacteria in your mouth, plaque can erode the enamel of your teeth causing decay and cavities.

Most dentists recommend brushing three times a day - after meals and before bed. You should choose a soft bristled brush with a compact head, and you should replace your toothbrush approximately every three months.

You should brush your teeth for approximately 2 to 3 minutes, brushing at a 45-degree angle in short, circular motions. Be sure not to neglect other areas in your mouth: your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth - all popular hiding places for bacteria.

B: Flossing

Flossing is essential for removing plaque and debris from in between your teeth and along the gum line that brushing may have missed. It also stimulates your gums and increases blood circulation.

Dentists recommend you floss once a day and most people find this easiest to do at night. The best way to floss is by breaking off about 12 inches of floss and wrapping 1 to 2 inches around each middle finger. This will allow you to use your thumb and forefingers to move the floss inside your mouth. Gently press the floss in between two teeth and slide it up and down several times along the sides of the teeth to remove plaque and food debris.

Your gums may bleed the first few times you floss. However, if you floss regularly and your gums continue to bleed or are very tender, see your dentist; they may suggest an alternative to flossing such as using a water pick.

C: Regular Trips To The Dentist

In addition to brushing, flossing, and having good oral hygiene habits at home, it's important to see your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.

It is recommended that you visit your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings. During this time, a dental hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth and remove any hardened plaque from your teeth and along the gum line.

At one of these cleanings, your dentist will also do a thorough examination of your mouth and teeth and order a complete set of x-rays to check for any hidden problems or new decay. If any new cavities are discovered, your dentist will have you return for a filling to stop the decay.

Brushing, flossing, and regular trips to the dentist are the ABC's of good oral hygiene habits.

Chris Harmen writes for City Dental, [http://www.citydentalonline.com/]dentists in LA specializing in cosmetic and general dentistry with a commitment to the highest standards in patient care.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-ABCs-of-Good-Oral-Hygiene-Habits&id=3379616] The ABCs of Good Oral Hygiene Habits