Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy

1. Tips for Keeping Teeth
and Gums Healthy
Emma Wise

2. Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy
To prepare herself for a career as an oral health professional, Ohio native
Emma Wise is currently working as a dental assistant at Dentist at Winbury in
Chagrin Falls. In that capacity, Emma Wise interacts with patients and assists
with their treatment, including providing instructions on preventative care.
Following are some tips on how to keep teeth and gums healthy.

3. Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy
Proper Brushing - To remove all plaque and bacteria from the mouth, brushing
should last at least two minutes. Instead of brushing in a back-and-forth
motion, it is ideal to brush in a circular motion with the toothbrush held at a
45-degree angle. Furthermore, toothbrushes should only be used for two to
three months before being replaced.

4. Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy
Flossing - Dental floss helps to prevent gum disease by getting rid of pieces of food
and plaque from between your teeth. If plaque builds up, the bacteria can irritate the
gums and cause inflammation (swelling) Unlike a toothbrush, which cleans the tops
and outer surfaces of the teeth and gums, floss is designed specifically to clean the
tight spaces between the teeth and under the gums, places that a toothbrush can't
reach. Floss your teeth daily using a slow and gentle sawing motion to prevent tartar
buildup that can lead to gingivitis and even periodontal disease, all of which can harm
the rest of the body by leading to potentially life-threatening systemic diseases such as
heart disease, diabetes and respiratory illness.

5. Tips for Keeping Teeth and Gums Healthy
Keep the Tongue and Mouth Clean - To freshen breath and remove plaque
from the tongue, use a tongue scraper daily. Bad breath is typically caused by
bacteria buildup on the tongue. When choosing a mouthwash, those containing
fluoride are excellent in helping to prevent tooth decay.