Why Is It Essential to Brush and Floss Your Teeth Properly at Home?
Dentists usually say that brushing and flossing your teeth are a great way to maintain oral hygiene, but you could be putting your health at risk if you’re not doing them properly. Most people know that effective brushing and flossing should be done at least twice daily. But do you know why? Or why proper brushing and flossing is essential?
According to a Los Gatos dentist, proper brushing means making sure you are cleaning each and every tooth with a soft brush, brush, and floss at least twice daily. Moreover, the best way to keep your teeth healthy is to put enough fluoride in your mouth.
Here are reasons you should take time to brush and floss your teeth to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Prevents tooth decay
Tooth decay is the main reason for a lot of dental problems like toothaches, foul breath, gum disease, and cavities. Brushing and flossing are the best ways to prevent the cavity from building on your teeth. The best way to fight tooth decay is to brush with fluoride toothpaste twice daily, starting at age 2-3 years. This would help get rid of plaque and prevent tartar build-up on your teeth. Brushing right after eating or drinking makes sure that you don’t wash food down your throat without brushing first.
- Prevent periodontal diseases
Brushing and flossing your teeth, together with visiting your dentist regularly, can also help prevent periodontal diseases like Gingivitis. It would be best to brush your teeth at least once every morning after you wake up and before you go to bed. Moreover, it is a good idea to make sure you brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush as hard bristles can damage gum tissues. Gingivitis is a type of periodontal disease that can lead to bleeding gums, pain, and swollen teeth. Brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush removes the plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause Gingivitis.
- Prevents halitosis
Halitosis is a severe oral health problem, and most people don’t realize it. A bad breath can be caused due to the deposits of food, plaque, tartar, and bacteria between teeth and under your tongue. There may be instances when you’ll have gum disease or cavities that cause a foul odor in your mouth. Halitosis is often mistaken for bad taste in the mouth or a mouth injury. If you notice that you have an unpleasant smell in your mouth, it is important to see an oral health professional immediately. Proper brushing and flossing will help you keep oral conditions like halitosis at bay.
