Brushing & Flossing in Kitchener, ON
Brushing and flossing are integral to maintaining good oral health. After consuming any food or beverage, residue tends to linger on our teeth. Our mouth has a natural population of bacteria that feeds on this residue and acid is produced as a byproduct. This acid starts dissolving the enamel of the teeth, a process known as tooth decay.
In addition, this acid causes red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Unhealthy gums begin to sag, moving away from the teeth. While the teeth are supported by the jawbone and the gums, once the gums start receding, the bone around the roots of the teeth start to disappear as well. The tooth will slowly become loose, as it would not have enough foundation in the jawbone. The tooth becomes longer and longer until it eventually falls out.
With regular brushing and flossing, we are able to remove most of the food residue, thereby reducing the amount of acid that would eventually be produced.
How Often Should I Brush and Floss?
Dr. Sharib Manzoor, your dentist here at MI Dental in Kitchener, ON, strongly advocates a regimen of brushing and flossing at a minimum of two times daily, ideally after each meal. While traditional toothbrushes can be effective, you must make sure you clean all the surfaces of your teeth and brush for at least two minutes. Alternatively, you can use an electric toothbrush. Capitalizing on their dynamic head movements, electric toothbrushes clean the teeth more effectively and keep track of the time so you know you’re brushing long enough.