Are You Keeping Good Oral Hygiene Habits?

Learn some good oral hygiene tips from your Madisonville dentists.oral hygiene

Bacteria in your mouth can form into plaque if it's not removed by regular brushing and flossing, leading to gingivitis (early stage of gum disease) or cavities. To keep the mouth clean, a regular good oral hygiene routine is necessary. Your dentists in Madisonville, KY, Dr. Ben Baldwin and Dr. Stuart Baldwin at Baldwin Dental Group, offer helpful tips for hygiene and help keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.

Establishing Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Certain food cause bacteria in the mouth to produce acids that eat away at our enamel and irritate our gums. This plaque accumulates on the teeth and where toothbrushes can’t reach, making flossing important. The best way to remove plaque is by brushing and cleaning between the teeth regularly. Brushing helps to remove plaque from the surface of the teeth. Brush twice daily with a soft brush. Floss between the teeth at least once a day with floss or cleaners to remove plaque. Be sure to do this before brushing. Ultimately, flossing is necessary for gum disease prevention.

The American Dental Association recommends moving the brush back and forth gently in short strokes for optimal brushing. Use the tip of the toothbrush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth in a gentle up and down stroke. Brush the tongue last to remove bacteria and to help freshen breath.

In terms of flossing, they recommended guiding the floss between the teeth in a gentle motion. Curve it in a C shape against one tooth while sliding it into the space between the gum and that particular tooth. Hold the floss tightly against the tooth and rub the side of the tooth while moving the floss away from the gums in an up and down motion. Repeat this process for all of the teeth.

Ultimately, your family dentists in Madisonville, KY, Dr. Ben Baldwin and Dr. Stuart Baldwin at Baldwin Dental Group, can examine your teeth and offer information regarding your particular gum and tooth health. Regular dental examinations and dental cleanings are imperative for optimal healthy teeth and gums. To schedule an appointment with them today, call (270) 245-1547.

Contact Us

Family Dentist Madisonville, KY

Baldwin Dental Group

32 East Broadway

Madisonville, KY 42431

(270) 245-1547