Oral Hygiene

Why Oral Hygiene Matters

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for lifelong dental health. In fact, adults over the age of 35 are more likely to lose teeth due to gum disease (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Studies show that up to 75% of adults experience some form of periodontal disease in their lifetime.

Both gum disease and tooth decay are caused by bacterial plaque—a sticky, colorless film that forms along the gum line. If not removed daily through brushing and flossing, this plaque can harden and lead to serious dental problems.

The best defense? Daily brushing, consistent flossing, and regular professional cleanings.

How to Brush Properly

Choose the right brush: Use a soft or medium-bristled toothbrush to protect your gums.
Angle correctly: Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where your teeth meet your gums.
Use gentle motions: Make small, circular strokes across the outside surfaces of your teeth.
Clean all sides: Brush the inside surfaces using the same gentle motion.
For front teeth: Hold the brush vertically and use light up-and-down strokes.
Biting surfaces: Use short strokes on chewing surfaces.
Rinse well: After brushing, rinse thoroughly to remove loosened plaque and debris.

How to Floss Correctly

Start with 18 inches of floss. Wrap most around one middle finger, and the rest around the other.
Guide gently: Hold floss tightly between thumbs and forefingers. Ease it between teeth with a back-and-forth motion.
Clean the gum line: Curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and slide it under the gum. Floss both sides of each space.
Use fresh sections: As floss becomes soiled, unwind a clean portion.
Rinse: After flossing, rinse with water to flush out loosened plaque and particles.

Note: Mild bleeding or tenderness is normal during your first week of flossing and should improve with consistent use.

Choosing the Right Oral Hygiene Products

Toothbrushes: Electric brushes like Rotadent or Interplak are highly effective. Water irrigators help rinse your mouth but should be used with brushing and flossing.
Specialty brushes: Interproximal brushes and gum stimulators can help clean between teeth or massage gums — but should be used correctly to avoid damage.
Fluoride products: Fluoride toothpaste and rinses can reduce cavities by up to 40%. Avoid rinses in children under age six.
Tartar control toothpaste: These help with buildup above the gum line but don’t prevent gum disease beneath it.
Anti-plaque rinses: ADA-approved rinses may help control early-stage gum disease when used alongside brushing and flossing.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Even with perfect daily brushing and flossing, there are areas your toothbrush and floss can't reach. That’s why professional cleanings are so important. We recommend visiting Westlake Dental Care every six months for routine exams and cleanings to remove built-up plaque and calculus, and to catch issues early.

Maintaining Long-Term Oral Health

Healthy teeth and gums require a daily commitment:

Brush twice daily
Floss once daily
Use recommended dental products
Schedule professional cleanings every six months

With these simple habits, you can prevent gum disease and decay, helping you keep your smile healthy and beautiful for life.

If you have questions or would like to schedule your next cleaning, please contact our office. We’re here to help you take the best possible care of your smile.