 Big City offers dental health information you can use!
Plaque is responsible for both tooth decay and periodontal gum disease. Gingivitis is a more mild and reversible form of periodontal disease that affects only the gums.
If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to a more destructive form of periodontal disease called periodontitis, which is both the inflammation of gum tissue and destruction of the supporting bone around the teeth.
Big City recommends a few tips as a general regimen for maintaining good oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush for one to two minutes using a gentle brushing motion. It is more important to use less pressure with the brush against the gum tissue and use more time brushing. Big City Dental recommends brushing your teeth after every meal.
- Use dental floss or an interdental cleaner daily.
- Eat a balanced, healthy diet and limit sugary or carbohydrate-loaded snacks.
- Look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal on fluoride toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, interdental cleaners, oral irrigators, mouth rinses and other oral hygiene products. The ADA Seal on a product is your assurance that it has met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness.
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Toothbrushes with medium or hard bristles are very abbrasive to the gum tissue.
- Replace your toothbrush at least every four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams. Contact Big City Dental for information or to schedule an appointment.
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