The Importance of Brushing and Flossing
 It is so important to make sure you brush and floss your teeth regularly. We understand that with your busy schedule, it can be a challenge to want to set aside two minutes each morning and night to take a toothbrush to your mouth, but the health benefits of regular brushing cannot be overstated. Plus, you cannot skip flossing. While both of these important tasks may seem like a chore or boring, getting into a good habit of taking care of your teeth can prevent many problems that can occur when you are older, such as gum disease and tooth decay. We here at Great Grins for KIDS - Oregon City love it when our patients are just as excited about good oral health as we are!
Why You Need to Brush and Floss
Every time you eat, you are also feeding the bacteria in your mouth. Everyone has bacteria in their mouths, and it is quite normal. What is not okay, though, is not removing these bacteria from their teeth and gums. Have you moved your tongue across your teeth and noticed a fuzzy or slimy film on them? That is plaque, the built-up bacteria. When it gets trapped against your teeth, it gives off toxins that can start to wear away at your dental enamel (the hard, outer layer of your teeth) and attack your gums.
Having healthy teeth and gums is not just about having a nice smile. If you do not take good care of your teeth, you could be putting your health in danger. Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to baby bottle tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth decay, also known as cavities, can be very painful and lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is also quite dangerous, too, and may lead to tooth loss and pain and poor health.
How to Brush and Floss Properly
Taking good care of your teeth is as simple as making sure you brush and floss regularly. Not everyone knows how to brush, which is why we want to make sure you understand how to do it properly. You will start with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Place a pea-sized drop of toothpaste on it, then gently start brushing your teeth in short back and forth strokes. You will want to brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums to help remove all trapped bacteria and food particles that may be stuck there. Make sure you brush your teeth for two minutes, both morning and night.
To floss correctly, you will want to start with an 18-inch piece of dental floss. Gently work the floss between your teeth and up underneath your gums. This will help to make sure you got everything that was trapped out from beneath your gumline and between your teeth. Use a new area of the floss for every tooth to help avoid spreading germs unnecessarily around to your other teeth.
In addition to brushing and flossing, you also need to make sure you schedule regular appointments with us for a checkup and a cleaning. Together, we can help make sure you have your happiest and healthiest smile. To learn more about brushing and flossing, or to set up an appointment with us here at Great Grins for KIDS - Oregon City, please give us a call today at 971-470-0045!
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