Keep Your Teeth Clean

1. Keep Your Teeth Clean Quick Tips for Good Oral Hygiene Effects of Improper Oral Hygiene Proper Way to Brush • Gingivitis/Periodontal Disease: • plaque builds up along and under the gum line and causes infections • Can lead to diabetes • Plaque build up can lead to coronary artery and heart disease • Tooth Decay (cavities): • The bacteria in plaque produce acids that harm enamel,the acids can cause a hole in the enamel. This hole is called a cavity. • Tooth Loss: • Plaque build-up and tobacco can lead to tooth loss • Teeth may have to be extracted in severe cases of periodontal disease • Oral and Gum Cancer: • Improper hygiene can lead to tongue, lips, gums and lung cancer • Can lead to jaw removal • Do: • Eat fruits and veggies, like apples and celery, which are natural stain removers • See a dentist at least twice a year • Floss you teeth daily • Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste • Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports or if you’re a nighttime teeth grinder • Use an electronic toothbrush • Avoid: • Drinking coffee excessively which stains teeth • Tobacco which stains teeth and leads to oral cancers • Popcorn kernels, ice cubes and hard objects which can crack your teeth • Wait to see a dentist until your teeth hurt • forget about the small spaces where plaque hides Bristles should contact tooth and gum line Tilt brush at a 45° angle Brush behind your teeth Brush biting surface of teeth Proper Way to Floss Hold floss tightly between thumbs and forefinger Wind 18” of floss around middle fingers Guide floss tightly against tooth Curve floss in C shape between gum and tooth