PREVENTATIVE DENTISTRY

HOW AND WHEN SHOULD TEETH BE BRUSHED?

Plaque is a sticky colorless film which can form on teeth within hours of eating from food left on teeth. Calculus is plaque which has hardened. It is often referred to as tartar and the terms are interchangeable. Brushing should be done as soon after eating as possible to remove plaque before it hardens to form calculus. Bristles of the toothbrush should be at a 45 degree angle toward the gums to clean a naturally occurring space between the teeth and gums called the gingival sulcus. A back and forth motion is used close to the gums. A circular motion is used over the remaining tooth surface. Proper brushing prevents cavities, gum disease and bone loss on the visible areas of your mouth.

HOW AND WHEN SHOULD TEETH BE FLOSSED?

Flossing is done at least once a day just before brushing. In this way food dislodged during flossing will be brushed away.

Floss is placed between teeth and wrapped against a tooth. It is moved up and down 5 to 10 times. The process is repeated on the adjacent tooth. The procedure is done between all teeth and behind the last tooth.

Flossing prevents cavities, gum disease and bone loss between teeth.

HOW AND WHEN SHOULD A RUBBER TIP BE USED?

Rubber tipping is used if gums are red and swollen. It is done a minimum of twice a day.

Rubber tipping uses a circular motion to massage the surface of the gums with the tip toward the teeth.

Rubber tipping reduces inflammation and the effects of gum disease by stimulating gum tissue and squeezing out material from the gingival sulcus.

WHAT ARE SEALANTS?

Sealants are plastics which are placed over deep grooves and pits which naturally occur on back teeth. They stop food from catching in these areas so decay can not form.

 

 

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