Hygiene

Billions of bacteria live in our mouths. While this sounds alarming, it is natural. Maintaining a healthy mouth is finding the correct balance between those billions of bacteria and keeping the bacteria from causing damage in the mouth.

The basis of a good oral hygiene regimen is brushing and flossing at least twice a day as well as using an antibacterial mouthwash. This routine keeps the plaque and bacteria in the mouth at levels that should prevent decay from forming.

While brushing and flossing are extremely important, professional cleanings every six months are just as important. No matter how much you brush, plaque will still be forming between the teeth and along the gumline as well as any places that are consistently missed during daily cleaning. Professional cleanings make sure all problem areas are kept clear.

Having the proper materials for cleaning the oral cavity is also important. The toothbrush should be small enough to fit inside the mouth and all the way behind the back teeth, and the brush should have soft bristles. If the brush cannot get fully behind the back teeth, Dr. Cederberg may need to evaluate the wisdom teeth. All toothbrushes need to be replaced every six months. (If you are getting your teeth

cleaned every six months at Cederberg Dental, you will receive a brand new toothbrush exactly when you need it!)

If flossing is a problem, patients should try the floss sticks available at most stores. These sticks have a handle and make it easier to reach the back teeth.