We have dedicated a few posts to dental hygiene and oral health, but there are some frequently asked questions that always occur. So we have decided to solve them.
Read on and solve some of the most frequently asked questions about dental hygiene, especially in reference to tooth brushing.
Frequently asked questions about dental hygiene techniques
At what age should children start brushing?
Dental hygiene for the youngest members of the household should begin as soon as the teeth erupt. During this period they cannot participate and parents should be in charge of cleaning their teeth twice a day with a damp cloth.
From the age of two, they can start using the toothbrush to gradually learn to brush their teeth, always under the supervision of their parents.
As they become interested in this process, it is important to let them take the initiative, always teaching them and making sure that brushing is done correctly.
Parental supervision should be maintained until the children acquire a good cleaning habit and do it correctly.
What is the proper way to brush?
Proper tooth brushing should be performed with short, gentle strokes, paying special attention to the gum line, hard-to-reach posterior teeth and the areas surrounding fillings, crowns and other repairs, if any.
It is advisable to start by cleaning the external surfaces of the upper teeth and then the lower teeth. We will continue with the cleaning of the internal surfaces of both and then we will clean the chewing surfaces.
Finally, the tongue, since its cleanliness favors a good breath.
Which is more advisable, a manual or an electric toothbrush?
Both manual toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes are effective for good dental hygiene, provided they are used correctly and for the necessary time, at least two minutes.
Nowadays the development of the technique has improved, electric toothbrushes and their use has some advantages over manual toothbrushes. The speed of rotation of the brush head means that tooth cleaning is completed in less time than with manual toothbrushes.
In addition, the bacterial flora is more easily eliminated and it has been demonstrated that its use reduces bacterial plaque more than manual use.
How is it recommended to clean the brush?
The toothbrush, whether manual or electric, should be cleaned after use. It must be rinsed well and the cells must be scrubbed to remove food, microorganisms and toothpaste. Finally we shake the brush to remove the water and avoid excess humidity.
After cleaning, it should be stored in a well ventilated and lighted place, in a vertical position and with the bristles facing upwards. In the event that it becomes clogged, we must make sure that it is completely dry before putting the lid on.
How often should we change it?
It must be changed before the bristles become worn and deformed. It is advisable to change brushes every 3 months.
There is a wide range of toothpaste on offer, what should we look out for?
We certainly have a wide range of toothpaste and there are many brands available on the market. In general, all of them are good, since they include fluoride among their components, which is very effective in controlling bacterial plaque and preventing the development of caries.
In addition, it is increasingly common for them to have a whitening or tartar control action. Therefore, your choice will depend on your taste and needs.
What needs to be done to remove plaque?
Dental plaque is a film of bacteria that adheres to the surface of the teeth and causes tooth decay and gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
This film is constantly formed, even when we do not eat. To eliminate and prevent it , the most effective way is to have good dental cleaning habits and practice them correctly, brushing daily, both teeth and interdental spaces after each meal.
Does interest in teeth whitening increase with the arrival of summer?
It is always a good time to have your teeth whitened, no matter the season of the year.
But it is true that in the summer there is more social activity and having a healthy and beautiful smile, in addition to being a sign of good oral health, promotes self-esteem and well-being. This is the reason why it is becoming more and more common for patients to demand this type of treatment.
What is recommended after teeth whitening?
After teeth whitening, you should avoid eating foods that contain dyes (sauce, coffee, tea, etc.) as well as smoking.
In addition, it is good to reinforce the treatment by using a whitening gel during the first week together with a whitening toothpaste.
Do you need a diagnosis of the dental health of your mouth?
In Cervantes Dental Clinic in Granada we care about your health and dental hygiene, so we advise you properly to treat your specific case.
Each of us is different, so our case is different. For this reason, personalized and attentive service is our daily routine.
If you need a diagnosis about the dental health of your mouth in Granada, just call or write us, we will be happy to assist you.
Smile is a universal language. Come to our dental clinic in Granada and we will advise you. First appointment free of charge!
