People who faithfully take care of their dental health know the basics of brushing, but there are a few additional practices of which even the most dedicated brushers might not be aware. Periodontists focus on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the gums and the other elements that reinforce the base of teeth.
We at the office of Russell D. Hatfield, DDS, MS, Ltd concentrate on maintaining the oral health of all of our patients. Our goal is to provide each person with a warm and welcoming experience. We do our very best to ensure that our patrons feel at ease. When you visit us, you can be confident that you’re receiving the finest and most advanced treatment.
Take these tips to ensure your twice-a-day task is tip-top.
Brush your tongue. The surface of this muscle is filled with nooks, crannies, crevices and taste buds, all of which conceal food particles that can, if left there, can lead to bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease. Use a tongue scraper (yes, they do exist!) or your toothbrush to perform a gentle clean sweep.
Hold off on the pressure. No matter which type of brush you use—manual or powered—repetition, not force, is the name of a winning game. Excessive pressure wears down enamel and makes gums recede. Brush with compassion, not compression.
Don’t overdue the toothpaste. Most people think that covering the length of the head of a manual toothbrush is standard practice. A dollop the size of a pea is best. The fluoride in toothpaste is a mineral; too much of it can change the shape and structure of your teeth.
Brush meticulously. Consider it the dental version of detailing your car. Sure, the fronts of your teeth are a cinch to reach, but it’s just as important to clean the chewing surface and the surfaces that touch your tongue. The hundreds of kinds of bacteria that call your mouth home stick to them too.
Know when to break up with your toothbrush. Its lifespan of usefulness and function is three to four months. After that, its bristles start to wear out and become less effective.
Russell D. Hatfield, DDS, MS, Ltd’s main mission is to give you excellent oral health. We’re proud of our never-ending ability to fulfill our mission to provide superior patient care. For more information about our practice and how we can help you, please call us to arrange an appointment.
