April is often recognized as the month filled with rain as we prepare ourselves for the heat and sun to come!  At our dental office in Kannapolis, April has another important meaning that’s near and dear to our hearts; it’s National Oral Health Month – when we recognize our dedicated dental hygienist and bring awareness to the importance of proper oral health.

The Daily 4

Today we want to drive awareness to the main components of a proper oral health routine including:

• Brushing
• Flossing
• Rinsing
• Chewing

The hygiene team that works closely with your dentist is dedicated to educating patients on the importance and proper techniques of these four crucial activities for a healthy mouth. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Brushing

We’re all taught from an early age to brush our teeth before heading off to school in the morning and prior to hopping into bed at night. This lesson should follow us throughout our entire lives. But it’s not only important to brush every day, it’s crucial that you brush correctly every day.  Make sure to aim that toothbrush at the gum line at a 45-degree angle and use gentle soft circles.  To make sure you’re getting the most out of your routine, always brush twice a day for two minutes each time and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Flossing

Brushing can not reach between your teeth, so we must floss at least once a day to finish the job.  If you don’t, you leave about 35% of each tooth’s surface uncleaned and exposed to the dangers of decay.  The proper technique of flossing is also important. Make sure to curve the floss toward each tooth and scrub up and down!

Rinsing

Besides brushing and flossing, using a mouthwash that’s approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) can enhance your oral health. There are two types of mouthwash — cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwash may temporarily mask bad breath but have no real oral health benefit, whereas therapeutic mouthwash with the ADA Seal of Acceptance have been tested to ensure it actually does what it claims, which is typically reducing bad breath, gingivitis, decay, and plaque.

Chewing

We would love it if every one of our patients would brush their teeth after eating, but we understand that’s often a far fetched wish!  Instead, we encourage patients to keep sugar-free gum handy and chew it after meals. We especially like gums that contain Xylitol! Chewing gum helps produce saliva, which then helps neutralize and rinse away bacteria left over from lunch.

These Daily 4 activities can go a long way in keeping your smile healthy. But even if you follow them exactly it’s still crucial to maintain your professional dental cleanings and exams. Regular dental visits help remove plaque and tartar and can help catch any potential problems early when treatment is still easy and more effective.