Since October is National Dental Hygiene Month, our dental team at Shelly Ereth Barone would like to talk a little bit about how to promote good oral health for yourself and your loved ones.
The ADA (American Dental Association) advises brushing your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure the toothbrush head is small enough to reach into the back areas of the mouth.
To brush, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Gently brush all tooth surfaces. Be sure to brush your tongue as well, to remove bacteria which helps your breath to stay fresher.
Next up is flossing. To clean between your teeth, once a day should be fine, and many people opt to do this before bedtime. This removes that bacterial biofilm called plaque, which can harden into tartar if it is not removed daily.
To help remove the bacterial biofilm, rinse with a mouthwash (without alcohol) to help fight tooth decay and gum disease.
Pro Tip: chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after a meal helps to fight tooth decay. The increased saliva production when you chew clears away leftover food particles and oral debris. Saliva also works to neutralize acids that are byproducts of the bacteria in the mouth.
Our dentist, Dr. Shelly Ereth Barone, is happy to help you have a healthier smile in Metairie, Louisiana. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with our team, please call us at 504-832-1164.
