Understanding
the Why

Oral problems can have serious effects on the body through the spread of pathogenic bacteria in the blood and bones, and by causing an inflammatory state in which systemic diseases can develop. Since the mouth can be both a window and a gateway to the body, systemic conditions and side effects of medical therapies can show up early as symptoms in the mouth. Left untreated, dental bacteria can lead to infections not only in the mouth, but in severe cases to cardiac issues, sinus infections, and even infections in the brain.

Missing teeth also reduce the ability to break down food properly, which means the body isn't fully able to break down the nutrients in various foods, affecting the stomach's ability to digest them.

Tooth pain can be caused by a variety of issues, whether it's a cracked tooth, a large cavity, periodontal disease, or a nerve exposure. Don't wait until it's too late — schedule an appointment immediately.

“Bacteria from the abscess can get into the bloodstream, and can travel to other spaces in your body, such as your brain or heart. It can be life-threatening.”

Periodontal (gum) disease has been linked to numerous systemic diseases in the body, including cardiac, pulmonary, and autoimmune disease, to name a few. One direct correlation is the link between gum disease and diabetes.

Several studies show that patients with either neglected diabetes or difficulty controlling their glucose levels have a 2–3 times higher risk of developing periodontitis. Long-term studies have also shown a higher incidence of progressive periodontal disease in patients with diabetes — for example, patients with periodontitis have been shown to suffer more extensive and severe loss of periodontal tissue support (bone loss and gum recession) when diabetes is also present.

Brushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. Though bi-annual professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and debris, excellent home care methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle, and prevent serious diseases.

Reasons proper brushing and flossing are essential

• Prevention of tooth decay — tooth decay is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and its treatment often requires complex dental procedures. It occurs when acids found in plaque erode the natural enamel on the teeth, which proper home hygiene can easily prevent.
• Prevention of periodontal disease — a serious, progressive condition that can cause tooth loss, gum recession, and jawbone recession, caused by toxins found in plaque. Removing plaque and calculus (tartar) with a toothbrush and dental floss is an excellent way to stave off periodontal problems.
• Prevention of halitosis — bad breath is usually caused by old food particles on or between the teeth, which regular brushing and flossing remove, leaving the mouth healthier and breath fresher.
• Prevention of staining — staining or yellowing of teeth can be caused by factors like smoking, coffee, and tea. Regularly removing these staining agents through brushing and flossing makes permanent stains less likely.

The proper way to brush

Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed. The best toothbrush is small, with soft, rounded-end bristles, and no more than three months old. The head should be small enough to reach every area of the mouth, with bristles soft enough not to damage the gum tissue. The American Dental Association (ADA) has given electric toothbrushes with rotating or oscillating heads its seal of approval as more effective than other toothbrushes.

• Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where the gums and teeth meet.
• Use small circular motions to gently brush the gumline and teeth.
• Don't scrub or apply too much pressure, as this can damage the gums and tooth enamel.
• Brush every surface of every tooth — cheek-side, tongue-side, and chewing surfaces — with special emphasis on the back teeth.
• Use back-and-forth strokes to brush the chewing surfaces.
• Brush the tongue to remove fungi, food, and debris.

The proper way to floss

Flossing removes plaque from the interdental regions between the teeth, which are hard to reach with a toothbrush and should be cleaned with dental floss daily. It's an especially important tool for preventing periodontal disease and limiting the depth of gum pockets. The flavor and type of floss don't matter — choose one that's easy and pleasant to use.

• Cut a piece of floss to around 18 inches long.
• Wrap one end around the middle finger of the left hand and the other end around the middle finger of the right hand, until the hands are 2–3 inches apart.
• Work the floss gently between the teeth toward the gum line.
• Curve the floss in a C-shape around each tooth and carefully slide it beneath the gum line.
• Carefully move the floss up and down several times to remove interdental plaque and debris.
• Don't pop the floss in and out between the teeth, as this will inflame and cut the gums.

If you have any questions about the correct way to brush or floss, please ask your dentist or dental hygienist.