Top Ten List for
Healthier Smiles: #2
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(210) 598-5321www.hensleedentalteam.com
#2 The Dynamic Duo: Brushing and Flossing
When you hear the words Dynamic Duo,
who comes to mind? Batman and Robin?
Sherlock Holmes and Watson? The Lone
Ranger and Tonto?
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Well, I’ve got a new duo for you:
Brushing and Flossing! I admit
that brushing and flossing may
not sound exciting, but they pack
a powerful one/two punch when
it comes to oral health and there
is no better way to keep your
mouth healthy at home.
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When done correctly, brushing and flossing remove
plaque, food and bacteria from our mouths. They
decrease the chance of decay, periodontal
disease, halitosis (bad breath) and reduce staining.
This week’s tip is all about helping you brush up on
your personal oral hygiene.
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Find a brush that works for you. It
should be comfortable to hold, the
head needs to be angled to help you
reach those back corners, and the
bristles need to be soft. Hold your
toothbrush so that it reaches your
gums as well as your teeth.
First, let’s talk about brushing.
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The trick to being able to reach all your teeth
properly is keeping your lips loose. That means no
crazy tight lipped smile or stretching your mouth into
a silent scream. When we stretch our mouths open
wide, muscles tighten on the sides and make it
impossible to brush the cheek side of our back teeth.
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Instead, open just enough to comfortably place the
toothbrush in your mouth. Then, almost close
completely with the toothbrush between your cheek
and teeth. The same method applies to the front
teeth. Loose lips will allow you to get your teeth and
gum tissue cleaner. Remember to brush all surfaces
with small circular strokes with a light touch. Applying
too much pressure can do more harm than good.
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Flossing also requires a soft
touch. When you floss, gently
guide the floss between the
teeth and then “hug” each
tooth with the string.
It’s a technique that
takes a while to
master so don’t get
discouraged if the first
few times all you feel
you’ve accomplished
is cutting off the
circulation to your fingers!
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If the finger method doesn’t work for you, then
consider using a floss holder. The type of flosser
you use doesn’t matter as long as it allows you
to get those hard to reach back teeth. No
matter the method, be sure the floss is clean of
debris from tooth to tooth. Otherwise, you’re just
giving the bacteria and plaque a free ride
around your mouth.
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The last tip on brushing and flossing is knowing
when to ask for help. Bleeding gums, shredding
floss, and foul odors could all be a sign of a more
serious problem.
Make sure you spend some quality time with this
dynamic duo at least twice a day. Your smile will
Thank You!
If you are looking for a highly qualified family dentistry team, schedule an
appointment with us online at http://www.hensleedentalteam.com/
schedule-an-appointment/or call us at (210) 598-5321.
(210) 598-5321www.hensleedentalteam.com