Proper Oral Hygiene Practices
Good oral hygiene is one of the most basic building blocks of a healthy mouth. Oral hygiene does far more than keep your smile bright and attractive: Recent research shows that a healthy mouth reflects the health of your entire body. Biannual visits to our Westlake Village cosmetic dentist can catch early signs of trouble such as gum disease or decay, but your oral hygiene practices are just as important, particularly when it comes to preventing such problems.
Good oral hygiene practices begin with regular brushing. Proper brushing technique is important. Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush held at an angle will remove plaque from the tooth surface. Flossing daily removes plaque from between the teeth. An antiseptic mouthwash can help kill the bacteria that live in plaque, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Oral health habits should begin early in life. Infants can have their gums cleaned with a soft cloth, graduating to toddler toothpaste and a soft toothbrush as their teeth emerge. These good habits should continue throughout life as well, even when teeth are gone. Dentures should be brushed and soaked according to the dentist's directions in order to prevent plaque buildup and subsequent gum disease and infection.
Brushing should be done gently in order to avoid damaging the enamel, and the floss should be eased between teeth so as not to damage gums. However, in the early days of flossing, gums may bleed slightly. If gums continue to bleed beyond a week, it is important that you see our Westlake dentist for an evaluation. You should also visit our dentist every six months for a thorough examination and cleaning.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
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Good oral hygiene practices begin with regular brushing. Proper brushing technique is important. Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush held at an angle will remove plaque from the tooth surface. Flossing daily removes plaque from between the teeth. An antiseptic mouthwash can help kill the bacteria that live in plaque, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Oral health habits should begin early in life. Infants can have their gums cleaned with a soft cloth, graduating to toddler toothpaste and a soft toothbrush as their teeth emerge. These good habits should continue throughout life as well, even when teeth are gone. Dentures should be brushed and soaked according to the dentist's directions in order to prevent plaque buildup and subsequent gum disease and infection.
Brushing should be done gently in order to avoid damaging the enamel, and the floss should be eased between teeth so as not to damage gums. However, in the early days of flossing, gums may bleed slightly. If gums continue to bleed beyond a week, it is important that you see our Westlake dentist for an evaluation. You should also visit our dentist every six months for a thorough examination and cleaning.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
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