My Blog
Archive:
- 2021
- 2020
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015
- 2014
- 2013
- 2012
Tags
- fluoride (2)
- celebrity smiles (94)
- floss (1)
- periodontal (gum) disease (1)
- common symptoms (1)
- oral health (37)
- oral hygiene (37)
- diabetes (1)
- smile makeover (7)
- cosmetic dentistry (23)
- veneers (8)
- invisalign (1)
- clear aligners (6)
- orthodontics (5)
- dental implants (24)
- chipped tooth (3)
- bonding (2)
- pediatric dentistry (6)
- teething (1)
- thumb sucking (2)
- oral cancer (7)
- orthodontic treatment (11)
- braces (9)
- dentures (6)
- pediatric care (2)
- pregnancy (3)
- gum disease (10)
- periodontal disease (3)
- tooth decay (18)
- crowns (9)
- local anesthesia (2)
- dental crowns (4)
- missing tooth (2)
- replacing teeth (1)
- dental implant (4)
- porcelain veneers (5)
- bleeding gums (1)
- bridgework (2)
- tooth pain (5)
- root canal treatment (2)
- plastic surgery (1)
- gum recession (1)
- wisdom teeth (6)
- x-rays (2)
- tooth grinding (1)
- athletic mouthguards (2)
- dental injury (10)
- mouthguards (5)
- tooth extraction (1)
- toothache (2)
- abscessed tooth (1)
- tmd (3)
- tmj disorders (6)
- tmj (3)
- tooth wear (2)
- cancer (1)
- root canal (4)
- smoking (3)
- mouthguard (2)
- root resorption (1)
- canker sores (1)
- dental emergency (2)
- teeth wear (1)
- bad breath (1)
- teeth grinding (3)
- nutrition (8)
- sugar (2)
- sensitive teeth (1)
- dry mouth (3)
- missing teeth (2)
- implant dentistry (1)
- toothpaste (2)
- restorative dentistry (1)
- teeth whitening (4)
- Family Dentist (1)
- dental care (3)
- flossing (1)
- chipped teeth (1)
- snoring (1)
- sleep apnea (1)
- dental injuries (1)
- removable partial denture (1)
- Damaged Teeth (2)
- tooth replacement (1)
- sports drinks (1)
- dentistry (1)
- x-ray (1)
- Family Dentistry (2)
- osteoporosis (2)
- bone grafting (1)
- CAT scans (1)
- bridge (1)
- bone loss (1)
- Dental Sealants (1)
- retainer (1)
- vitamins (1)
- mouthrinse (1)
- Gums (1)
- Root Canal Therapy (1)
- extraction (1)
- stress (1)
- dental exam (1)
- mouth sore (1)
- Dentist (1)
- Dental Visits (1)
- Dental Checkups (1)
- crown (1)
After years of research, we're confident in saying that brushing and flossing daily are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. A mere five minutes a day performing these tasks will significantly lower your risk of dental disease.
We're also sure about the essentials you'll need to perform these tasks: a soft-bristled toothbrush using fluoride toothpaste, and a roll (or picks) of dental floss. The only deviation might be a water flosser appliance instead of flossing thread.
Unfortunately, some folks deviate even more from the norm for both of these tasks. One of the strangest is a social media trend substituting regular toothpaste with substances containing activated charcoal. The proponents of brushing with charcoal claim it will help whiten teeth and kill harmful microorganisms. People brushing with a black, tarry substance also seem to make for good “gross-out” videos.
There's no substantial evidence to support these claims. Perhaps proponents of charcoal's whitening ability are assuming it can remove stains based on its natural abrasiveness. It could, however, remove more than that: Used over time, charcoal could wear down the protective enamel coating on your teeth. If that happens, your teeth will be more yellow and at much greater risk for tooth decay.
When it comes to flossing (or more precisely, removing food material from between teeth), people can be highly inventive, substituting what might be at hand for dental floss. In a recent survey, a thousand adults were asked if they had ever used household items to clean between their teeth and what kind. Eighty percent said they had, using among other things twigs, nails (the finger or toe variety) and screwdrivers.
Such items aren't meant for dental use and can harm tooth surfaces and gum tissues. Those around you, especially at the dinner table, might also find their use off-putting. Instead, use items approved by the American Dental Association like floss, floss picks or toothpicks. Some of these items are small enough to carry with you for the occasional social “emergency.”
Brushing and flossing can absolutely make a difference keeping your teeth and gums healthy. But the real benefit comes when you perform these tasks correctly—and use the right products for the job.
If you would like more information on best oral hygiene practices, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation.
