ORAL HYGIENE

Oral Hygiene

At times after any sort of dental procedure, teeth are sensitive to hot and cold. This should not last long, but only if there is total maintenance of oral health. If the mouth is not kept clean the sensitivity will remain and could increase in severity. If your teeth are especially sensitive consult with your doctor. They may recommend a medicated toothpaste or mouth wash made especially for sensitive teeth.

There are so many products on the market it can become confusing and choosing between all the products can be difficult. Here are some suggestions for choosing dental care products that will work for most patients.

Automated and powered toothbrushes are safe and effective for the majority of the patients. Oral irrigators (water spraying devices) will cleanse your mouth thoroughly, but will not remove plaque. You need to brush and floss in conjunction with the irrigator.

Some toothbrushes have a rubber tip on the handle; this is used to massage the gums after brushing. There are also tiny brushes (interproximal toothbrushes) that clean between your teeth. If these are used improperly you could injure the gums, so discuss proper use with your doctor.

Fluoride toothpastes and mouth rinses if used in conjunction with brushing and flossing can reduce tooth decay as much as 40%. Remember, these rinses are not recommended for children under six years of age. Tartar control toothpastes will reduce tartar above the gum line, but gum disease starts below the gum line so these products have not been proven to reduce the early stage of gum disease.

Anti-plaque mouth washes, approved by the American Dental Association, contain agents that may help bring early gum disease under control. Use these in conjunction with brushing and flossing.

Daily brushing and flossing will keep dental calculus to a minimum, but a professional cleaning or scaling of teeth will remove calculus and deposits in places your toothbrush and floss have missed. Your visit to our office is an important part of your program to prevent gum disease. Keep your teeth for your lifetime.