Although having a check up with your dentist every six months is hugely important, it is just as vital that you take excellent care of your teeth and gums at home in your everyday life. In order to do this you should pursue the recommended regime of brushing and flossing that will help to keep gum disease and tooth decay at bay.
Brace yourself to brush
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day to stop the build up of plaque. Plaque forms from the sugary and starchy foods we eat and attacks the enamel that protects our teeth. Just brushing your teeth once a day will not be enough, as plaque takes four to twelve hours to form. An even better solution is to brush your teeth after every meal, especially if it was particularly sugary or starchy.
The truth is in the toothpaste
Fluoride toothpastes are ideal because they actually help to strengthen enamel. You ought to brush for about three minutes and use a soft-bristled brush. An overly vigorous technique or an especially hard brush can damage your gums and, in time, wear down your enamel and leave your teeth more exposed.
Fabulous flossing
Flossing is important too because it reaches and cleans parts of your mouth that brushes cannot. Floss is made from thin nylon or Teflon and is pulled between the teeth to remove plaque and debris which can form there too. If you are not a regular user of floss and begin using it you find your gums become a little sore or even bleed, but this will pass.
