How clean are your teeth, actually?

21/10/24

October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a time to reflect on the significance of oral health and also a great time to remind ourselves of what we can do on a daily basis to make sure we can maintain those lovely smiles! The foundation of good oral care lies in two simple yet essential habits: brushing and interdental cleaning e.g. flossing. While most of us incorporate these into our daily routines, many of us still make mistakes that can compromise our dental health.

Why Correct Brushing and Flossing Matter

Brushing and flossing are not just about maintaining fresh breath; they are crucial in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. ‘Plaque’ is the sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums after eating. Plaque buildup can lead to serious dental problems, including gum inflammation and tooth loss if it isn’t properly removed. Brushing is the best way to remove this plaque build up.

Interdental Cleaning is equally important because it reaches areas that brushing alone can’t, especially between the teeth and along the gumline.

Common Dental Hygiene Mistakes

1. Brushing too hard: Many people believe that brushing harder will clean their teeth better. However, this can damage your tooth enamel and irritate your gums, leading to sensitivity and gum recession.
2. Not brushing long enough: Dentists recommend brushing for two full minutes twice a day. Many people fall short of this time, missing areas of their teeth and allowing plaque to build up.
3. Brushing Technique: Most people brush with a scrubbing motion back and forth. we should actually brush with small circular motions to clean as effectively as possible. This is known as the Modified-Bass Technique.
4. Neglecting the gumline: Focusing only on the teeth and neglecting the gumline can allow plaque to build up, eventually leading to gingivitis or gum disease. Make sure to gently brush up against the gumline.
5. Lack of interdental cleaning: Although most people brush twice daily, many don’t clean in between the teeth with either floss or interdental brushes. This leads to food and plaque being left in between the teeth which then go on to cause decay and gum disease.

How to Prevent These Mistakes

• Brush gently: Use either an electric or manual toothbrush and apply steady pressure while brushing in small circular motions. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as it can wear down your enamel and harm your gums.
• Brush for two minutes: To ensure you’re brushing long enough, use a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer to keep you on track.
• Choose the right toothbrush: Opt for a soft or medium bristled toothbrush that is the right size for your mouth, allowing you to reach all areas comfortably.
• Don’t forget the gumline: Angle your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gumline to remove plaque from this sensitive area without irritating your gums.
• Clean in between your teeth correctly: Use about 18 inches of floss, wrapping it around your fingers to have control. Gently guide the floss between your teeth and curve it into a “C” shape around each tooth to ensure a thorough clean. If using interdental brushes, then gently push it forward and backwards in between the teeth. Also make sure you use the thickest brush that fits into each gap, this may mean that you use different sized brushes for different areas of the mouth.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is about more than just aesthetics—it plays a vital role in your overall health with oral health having clear links to things like Diabetes and Heart Disease. This National Dental Hygiene Month, take a moment to evaluate your brushing and flossing habits. By correcting common mistakes and being mindful of your technique, you can protect your teeth and gums for years to come!

By Dr Jai Ghelani, Smmmile Nottingham Principal Dentist