Dental Tips

Brushing Teeth

There have been various tooth brushing techniques suggested through the ages by dentists but the most accepted brushing technique is “The Bass Method”.

• Always use a soft bristled tooth brush, hard bristles damage your gums leading to gingival recession.
• Wet your toothbrush and take a pea amount of toothpaste.
• Hold the tooth brush tilted an angle of 45 degrees towards your gums.

• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become worn or frayed.

Flossing

Wind about 18 inches of floss around the middle fingers of each hand, leaving about 5 inches between your hands. Pinch the floss between your thumbs and index fingers and leave about one inch in between to work with. Gently guide the floss down between the teeth, using a side-to-side motion.

Pull the floss tightly into a C shape around the side of the tooth and slide it under the gum line. Clean the surface of the tooth by using an up-and-down motion, not side-to-side, until the surface is clean.

Jaw Joint Pain

If you experience pain or sore muscles in the jaw joint area (in front of your ears) or even headaches, you may be grinding or clenching your teeth in your sleep. Speak to your dentist about being fitted for a night guard, which will protect your teeth and the joint area.

Bleeding gums and bad breath

Gums should not bleed upon brushing. This is an indication of periodontal disease. Get yourself evaluated for extent of the disease and stick on to the prescribed regimen.