Gum diseases or periodontal diseases are targeting an increasing number of adults globally. Post the age of 35, teeth loss due to periodontal diseases is more prevalent than due to cavities and is affecting more than 75% of the population. But fortunately, these grave problems come with simple solutions.
Using appropriate brushing and flossing techniques on a regular basis help you get rid of bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colourless deposit on teeth near the gum line which provides a suitable environment for bacteria generation and causes tooth decay.
The correct brushing technique involves using a soft textured and medium sized brush. To clean the front/ outside surface of teeth, use a 45-degree angle and position it on the intersecting point of your gums and teeth. Use several circular motions in small and tender strokes. Apply mild pressure to allow the bristles to clean between the teeth, but ensure not to be too harsh. Then clean the inside part of your teeth similarly, but using vertical back-and-forth strokes.
For cleaning the biting surface, keep switching the brush position as required and use short, mild strokes. Ensure to reach every part with appropriate brush movements. Thoroughly rinse your mouth to remove any of the plaque residues.
Efficient brushing also cannot reach the area between your teeth. This paves way for gum diseases to appear here. That is why flossing plays an important part of oral hygiene since it cleans the plaque from these places.
For flossing correctly, use an 18-inch piece of floss, preferably waxed. Wrap a part of it on the middle finger of one hand and the rest on the other.
Use your thumb and forefinger to grip the floss, and insert it between your upper teeth gently. Use back-and-forth motion for the cleaning but restrain from applying excessive force. Now move it towards the gum line and create a semi-circular shape. Use up-down motions to clean the surfaces of both the adjacent teeth. Always stay careful to not injure your gum tissues during this process. Keep on changing the floss as it gets dirty. Vigorously rinse your mouth. Note that bleeding in the initial days of flossing is normal. Just ensure to stick to the technique.
Dental treatments can often sensitise teeth to extreme temperatures. If you punctually follow the specified oral hygiene routine, this issue should subside in a matter of days. However, an unhygienic environment would only amplify the issue. Please note that if the sensitivity is severe, you should consult your dentist and use the prescribed oral hygiene products meant for sensitive teeth.
Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine would help you get rid of most of the dental calculus. But timely visits to our office for professional cleaning are also important. They would help you get rid of any residual calculus and keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong.
With the flourishing markets and ensemble choice ranges, it is difficult to find the correct products. Here is a guide on some oral hygiene products which can be used by the majority.
Rotadent and Interplak amongst others are proficient electronic toothbrushes which work for almost all. Using quality oral irrigators along with regular brushing and flossing can also be helpful.
Interproximal brushes are also a great choice for thoroughly cleaning the space between two adjacent teeth. However, ensure that they are used systematically or you can end up injuring your gums.
Using fluoride toothpaste and anti-plaque rinses also provides resilient protection against tooth decay.