Huntersville Dentist

If you ask Tate C. Langdon in Huntersville, NC what exactly is the root cause of tooth decay and other dental problems including gingivitis, then you will get this simple answer — poor dental hygiene. So the remedy seems to be very clear: start brushing your teeth regularly. But this is often always easier said than done. Here are the things that you have to know more in order to have good dental health:

Choose the right toothbrush

In order for you to be effective in cleaning your teeth, then you need to be armed with the right tool. First off, the size of the toothbrush matters. The head should be large enough to clean around two teeth at a time but it should be small enough in order to get to the small spaces in your mouth especially around your molars. With regards to your bristles, the softer the bristles, the better it is for your teeth. Hard bristles can irritate your gums every time you brush which can cause gingivitis. Finally, Dr. Langdon recommends that patients replace their toothbrush every three to four months.

Use the right toothpaste

Not all toothpastes are created equally. Some toothpastes contain different formulations and have differing fluoride concentrations. Fluoride is a necessary component of toothpaste, especially since this mineral is crucial to the remineralization of enamel crystals in order to fortify the enamel layer and even to reverse the effects of early cavity formation. Cosmetic toothpastes do not contain fluoride so make sure that you read the label and check out its ingredient formulation before you pick out any toothpaste off the shelves.

Know how to brush properly

Just because you know how to rub your toothbrush against the surface of your teeth does not mean that you already know how to brush properly. Dr. Langdon recommends that patients angle their toothbrush on a 45 degree angle towards their gums in order to really remove debris which may be trapped in this area. Plaque, and consequently tartar, can accumulate along the gumline and cause infections such as gingivitis. Also, brushing should be done in circular strokes using little force. And don’t buy the false idea that the more forceful you are, the better you are at removing bacteria- you can cause more damage by brushing too hard.

Floss before you go to bed

Your day should never be complete unless you floss. While brushing enables you to get rid of plaque found on the exposed surfaces of your teeth, plaque can still accumulate in between your teeth. In fact, most cavities start to form in between your teeth because the plaque in these areas are not removed promptly. Only flossing can get the job done.

Twice yearly check ups at Tate C. Langdon in Huntersville, NC should also be considered an important step in optimal oral care.

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