Prevention is the key to oral health - we are exposed to so many irritants and cavity-causing foods, that we need better prevention today than did our parents and grand-parents. The processed foods have added so many sugars and additives to make these foods more tasteful but more destructive to the oral cavity.

Toothbrushing: using an ultra-soft brush is imperative; you would not paint a picket fence with a stiff brush, you need to get into all the nooks and crannies. A circular motion at a 45 degree angle is the best - our office staff can demonstrate this at your cleaning appointment. Don't forget to brush your tongue - bacteria thrive and hide on your tongue and you need to decrease bacterial numbers to prevent decay and gum disease. Brushing only contacts about 33% of tooth surface.

Flossing: there are several types; flossing alone gets 66% of tooth surface

• waxed, non-waxed, lubricated (Glide): purpose of the flossing is to stimulate the gum tissue between the teeth so the gum is keratinized and less susceptible to gum disease - best is non-waxed because it covers more surface area as you place floss between the teeth. make a c-shape around the tooth so that the floss gets under the tissue, not tear it. The technique is specific and our staff will demonstrate at every opportunity!
• holders: the problem with disposible floss holders is that it is very difficult to make the c-shape around the tooth and therefore may cause gum knotching
• how often: best to floss at least once every 24 hrs - maybe the AM or PM is best for you

Water piks: not every dentist is a fan of these irrigating devices, but our office feels there is merit in their use - stimulates tissue and removes food particles BUT does not remove bacterial plaque like brushing and flossing

• units - it is best to have a variable setting for the force of the liquid; start out soft and increase to firm pressure as your technique improves
• technique: it is best to have our staff demonstrate this but most importantly, DO NOT DIRECT INTO THE GUM - you place the flow over the tissue, 90 degrees to the gum, not under it (forcing liquid under the gum only inoculates the tissue like a puncture, nail wound, creating a gum infection)

Rinses & solutions: several types and uses for each

• Fluoride rinses/gels - used to remineralize enamel from acids caused by bacteria; also helps to decrease sensitivity
• anti-bacterial rinses (Peridex) - used to decrease bacteria and promotes healing after certain procedures
• mouth rinses that contain alcohol (Listerine, Scope): these use alcohol to kill bacteria (if it burns, it's working!); not recommended since the alcohol dries the mouth
• mouth rinses without alcohol (Crest Pro-Health) - if a rinse is desired, this is the type to use. Will decrease bacteria BUT will not remove bacterial plaque like brushing or flossing.