Family Dentistry

Oral Hygiene

Adults over the age of 35 are more likely to lose teeth due to gum disease (periodontal disease) than from cavities, with about three out of four adults experiencing gum disease at some point in their lives. The most effective way to prevent both cavities and periodontal disease is through daily brushing and flossing with proper technique.

Both gum disease and tooth decay are caused by bacterial plaque—a colorless, sticky film that forms along the gum line. Plaque continuously accumulates on your teeth, but by thoroughly brushing and flossing every day, you can remove the harmful bacteria and significantly reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

At The DentisTree, Dr. Kueckels recommends incorporating a soft-bristled toothbrush into your daily oral care routine. Start by positioning the brush at a 45-degree angle where your teeth and gums meet. Gently move the brush in a circular motion with small, soft strokes to clean the outer surfaces of your teeth. Apply light pressure to allow the bristles to reach between your teeth, but be cautious not to press too hard, as this can cause discomfort or damage to your gums.

Once you’ve brushed the outer surfaces, use the same gentle circular motion to clean the inner surfaces of your back teeth. For the inner surfaces of your upper and lower front teeth, hold the toothbrush vertically and use gentle back-and-forth strokes on each tooth, making sure to also clean the surrounding gum tissue.

Next, focus on the biting surfaces of your teeth by using short, gentle strokes, adjusting the brush to ensure all areas are thoroughly cleaned. It can be helpful to use a mirror to double-check that each part of your teeth is being addressed. After brushing, rinse thoroughly to wash away any plaque that was loosened during your brushing routine.

By following this careful and gentle brushing technique, you’ll support the health of your teeth and gums while maintaining a bright, healthy smile.

Periodontal disease often starts between the teeth, where your toothbrush can’t easily reach. Flossing is essential for removing plaque from these areas, but using the correct technique is key. The following steps will guide you, but remember that it takes time and practice to master effective flossing.

Prepare the Floss: Start by cutting about 18 inches of waxed dental floss, as waxed floss is typically easier to maneuver. Wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand, and the rest around the middle finger of your other hand.

Flossing the Upper Teeth: Hold the floss tightly between your thumb and forefinger on each hand. Gently guide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion, being careful not to snap it into place. When you reach the gum line, curve the floss into a C-shape around one tooth and carefully slide it into the space between your tooth and gum. Move the floss up and down along the side of the tooth, cleaning both surfaces in each space. Repeat this process for all your upper teeth, using a clean section of floss as needed. Be gentle to avoid cutting or irritating your gum tissue.

Flossing the Lower Teeth: Use the same method to clean between your lower teeth, this time guiding the floss with your forefingers. Don’t forget to clean the backside of the last tooth in both the upper and lower rows.

Rinse: After you’ve finished flossing, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to wash away any loosened plaque or debris.

It’s common for your gums to bleed or feel slightly sore during the first week of flossing, especially if you’re new to the practice. If you experience pain, you may be pressing too hard or pinching the gums. With consistent daily flossing, your gums will heal, and bleeding should subside as plaque is removed.

By following these steps and practicing regularly, you can effectively remove plaque and protect your teeth and gums from periodontal disease.