All the reasons to brush your teeth and use dental floss
Throughout the day, we eat and drink foods that lower the acidity level in our mouth below the desired range. It takes at least two hours for the acidity to return to its normal threshold. Therefore, it is recommended to eat at intervals of at least two to three hours to avoid leaving or causing the acidity to remain at a critical level, which leads to tooth decay and cavities.
You can eat chocolate, snacks, and drink sweet beverages, but it’s best to do so during a meal, not between meals. When drinking sweet drinks, it’s better to drink from a glass rather than a bottle, as drinking from a bottle over time lowers the acidity level in the mouth.
Chewing sugar-free gum after meals is beneficial because it raises acidity levels and increases saliva, which helps clean the remaining food particles in the mouth. However, chewing gum does not replace brushing your teeth twice a day. The most important brushing session is at night, as the bacteria that accumulate throughout the day remain in the mouth. When we sleep, there is less saliva in the mouth because the body is at rest, allowing enough time for cavities to develop and causing bad breath in the morning.
It’s important to know that brushing is more important than the toothpaste or mouthwash you use because the brush does most of the work. You should use only a small amount of toothpaste (pea-sized) and brush near the gums with soft, short strokes (two to three teeth at a time).
When we brush our teeth, we remove only 60% of the bacteria; the rest are located between the teeth, where the brush can’t reach. Therefore, it’s essential to use an additional tool, such as dental floss or a toothpick. Brushing teeth is a quick task that takes only four minutes a day—two minutes in the morning and two minutes at night. This routine saves you money, prevents pain, and enhances your quality of life. So, why not brush?
The reasons to use dental floss:
It may reduce the risk of stroke.
New studies have found that tooth loss caused by gum disease may increase the risk of stroke later in life. Using dental floss is the best way to prevent gum disease.
Microorganisms associated with gum disease have been found as deposits in arteries, meaning oral bacteria that block arteries can lead to heart disease.
Gum disease can cause significant pain, leading to bleeding gums. If untreated, the inflammation causes gum recession and eventually tooth loss.
Removing food particles and plaque between the teeth helps prevent bad breath. Brushing alone cannot remove all the plaque.
It will save you money. People who regularly use dental floss are less likely to suffer from dental problems and will need fewer dental treatments.
Why is it important to brush your teeth? The importance of brushing your teeth and maintaining a daily brushing routine is a smart investment in your oral health. Learn the essential tips for proper brushing with Dr. Ilan Price. Contact us for consultations and appointments!
By: Dr. Ilan Price
