Dental Hygiene Tips: Targeting Trouble Spots for Optimal Oral Health

As the proud owner of Metro Decatur Dental Group PC, Dr. Gary Simms, I am delighted to share some essential dental hygiene tips with our beloved Decatur community. Keeping your mouth clean and healthy is crucial for preventing dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Even with a solid daily dental routine, there are certain trouble spots that may be overlooked. Let’s explore these areas and learn how to address them effectively.

Behind Your Teeth: Lingual Hygiene Did you know that the back sides of your teeth, known as “lingual” by dentists, can be prone to accumulating bacteria and debris? This happens because your tongue, which naturally rests against the back of your teeth, can transfer gunk onto their surfaces. To tackle this area efficiently, try holding your toothbrush vertically instead of horizontally and ensure the bristles make full contact with the teeth and gum line as you brush.

Back Teeth: Don’t Miss the Nooks and Ridges The molars at the back of your mouth play a crucial role in chewing, but their shape means they have many nooks and ridges that can be challenging to clean thoroughly. Often, patients don’t give these teeth enough attention, leaving the front and back sides susceptible to plaque buildup. To combat this, consider using a toothbrush with a smaller head if reaching these areas feels uncomfortable. Electric toothbrushes often offer different head options, and various manual toothbrush brands may also cater to your needs.

Between Teeth: The Importance of Flossing While brushing is essential, it cannot entirely clean the spaces between your teeth. Flossing is a critical step in your dental hygiene routine, as it can remove approximately 50% of plaque that brushing alone may miss. Flossing not only prevents cavities and gum disease but also combats bad breath and tooth staining. If you’re facing challenges despite regular flossing, our team at Metro Decatur Dental Group PC is more than happy to assess your technique and offer helpful tips during your next teeth cleaning visit.

At Metro Decatur Dental Group PC, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care to our community in Decatur, GA. Remember, a healthy smile starts with proper dental hygiene, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.