Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by AM Hopkins
Everyone knows that brushing their teeth plays a major role in their overall health, but they may not be aware of the correct way to brush their teeth. The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice each day; here is a quick guide to ensure you know how to do it properly.
Purchase the right toothbrush. Before you even begin the process of brushing your teeth, it's important that you have the right toothbrush. The type of toothbrush you select depends on your specific needs. If you need a toothbrush mostly for removing plaque, a soft-bristled brush is best. On the other hand, if you are concerned about reaching hard-to-reach spaces, you should consider a toothbrush with a smaller head. in the Colgate Oral Care resources.
Take your time. You should spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. This may seem like a long time - the average person usually falls short of this goal - but it is necessary ensure that your teeth are clean. If you're worried about reaching this goal, consider investing in a toothbrush that has an automatic timer or use a stopwatch.
Be thorough. Tilt your toothbrush to a 45 degree angle and ensure that you are cleaning both the outer and inner surfaces of your upper and lower teeth. It is equally important to clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well.
Be gentle. When brushing your teeth, it's important to use short, precise strokes. This ensures that you don't cause any trauma to your mouth and that you reach the specific areas you are trying to target. You should brush the entire surface of the tooth in a gentle back and forth motion.
Don't forget your tongue. Brushing your tongue is an essential part of maintaining proper oral care. Many people often overlook this step, but it is important to both your overall oral hygiene and the freshness of your breath.
To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.
Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about the importance of dental sealants as a preventive dental treatment for your children!
Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com
By following the information in this guide, you and your family can have healthy teeth and gums to last a lifetime. As a parent, you can work with your children to help them understand why good oral care is important รณ and show them how to do it right!
Four Steps to a Bright Smile
- Brush at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, especially after eating breakfast and before bedtime.
- Floss every day.
- Limit the number of times you eat snacks each day.
- Visit your dentist regularly.
It's easy to guide your family toward good oral health. All it takes is the right information and a little practice to keep them moving in the right direction!
To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.
The remainder of the article details the following:
- Infographics on how to brush
- Infographcis on how to floss
- A list of preventive dental care tips!
Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about Stress and your Oral Health!
Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about Periodontal Screening!
You know good dental habits can help prevent things like cavities and gingivitis, but you may not know what conditions like these really look like or how they can affect your mouth. Use this visual guide to learn more about some of the most common dental health issues, symptoms to watch for and the potential treatments that are available. Please note: This content is for informational purposes only. Only a dentist, physician or other qualified health care professional can make a diagnosis.
Darkened Tooth
There
are two reasons your tooth may change color after trauma: It’s either trying
to protect the nerve or it’s dying. If it’s protecting the nerve, your tooth
may look a little darker than the ones next to it. If it changes colors like a
bruise (from pink to gray), this means your tooth is most likely dead. You may need
a root canal, usually followed by
a crown. In some cases it may
be necessary to remove the tooth. If it is a baby tooth, you may be able to
leave it alone until it falls out.
Canker Sores
Canker sores are small white or
gray sores with a red border that appear your lips, the back of your throat or
under your tongue. Their exact cause is uncertain but some suggest that immune
system problems, bacteria or viruses may be play a role. They are also more
common in women.
Canker sores aren’t contagious and usually heal on their own after one or two
weeks. Over-the-counter creams and mouthwashes may give you temporary relief. Until
it heals, stay away from hot, spicy or acidic foods because these can irritate
the sore.
Cancer
Each
year, approximately 40,000 new cases of oral cancer and cancers of the
throat, tonsils and back of the tongue are diagnosed. Tobacco use, alcohol abuse and HPV all increase your
chance of developing these
cancers.
Men are twice more likely to get oral cancer than women. During regular
checkups, your dentist will check your mouth for symptoms like red or white
patches, sores that won’t heal and rough, crusty spots. If anything suspicious
is found, your dentist will order more testing or refer you to a specialist.
The image above is only one example of how oral cancer might appear.
To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.
Everyone knows that brushing their teeth plays a major role in their overall health, but they may not be aware of the correct way to brush their teeth. The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice each day; here is a quick guide to ensure you know how to do it properly.
