How to Brush and Floss

The most important part of dental care is down to you. Brushing your teeth twice daily insures for healthier teeth and gums. And if you dread the dentist's chair then the best treatment is prevention.  
 
Plaque is a major cause of cavities. It is a transparent layer of bacteria that coast the teeth. Brushing your teeth will remove the plaque build up. You can also floss once a day to insure that all plaque is removed, even where the brush cannot reach. Brushing stimulates the gums too, which keep the gums healthy and prevent gum disease.  
 
Always make sure that your toothpaste contains fluoride. This is the most common ingredient in toothpaste and it prevents cavities.  
 
Tartar is plaque but in a hardened form. One in ten people find that tartar accumulates on their teeth. Using anti-tartar toothpastes can target this problem as well as spending a little extra time brushing in front of the saliva glades.  
 
If you have sensitive teeth, talk to your dentist about the best way to overcome this problem, It may be as simple as changing your toothpaste to a special, sensitive toothpaste.  
 
Top tips on brushing:  
 
" Gently brush your teeth, holding your brush at a 45 degree angle against your gum line. Use short strokes, starting from where the tooth meets the gum. Careful not to brush too hard as this could cause receding gums, and over time tooth sensitivity, or even tooth loss.  
" Using a sweeping motion, gently brush your tongue in a downward motion to remove the decay- causing bacteria. Not forgetting the roof of your mouth.  
" A lot of people do not brush for the suggested 2-3 minutes each day. Use an egg timer, or play a favourite song to get used to brushing for the suggested time.