What’s Your New Year’s Resolution for 2017?
Our New Year’s Resolution for You: Brushing & Flossing More!

The Holiday season is in full effect right now & before we know it, it will be 2017! Looking back on the year, it’s been a blessed year here @ Dr. Hadaegh’s office in Beverly Hills. If you haven’t thought up a New Year’s Resolution, yet, then we have one for you to consider!

Our New Year’s Resolution for You: Brushing & Flossing More!

While oral diseases are prevalent, dentists and hygienists argue that they are extremely preventable through proper oral hygiene. While professional dental cleanings every six months are important to remove debris, plaque, and debris, proper homecare methods, including brushing and flossing, are equally valuable.

A good brushing and flossing routine can improve the health of your mouth, give you a dazzling smile, and prevent serious diseases. This will, in turn, help to prevent:

● Tooth decay – This is one of the biggest causes of tooth loss. Depending on the extent of decay, you may require rather intricate dental procedures to restore or replace the affected tooth. Tooth decay by poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque and acid to accumulate in your mouth and erode tooth enamel. Regular brushing and flossing can help to prevent this.

● Periodontal disease – This is a progressive condition of gum disease that starts as gingivitis, with red, inflamed gums. If left untreated, it leads to gum recession, jawbone recession, and even tooth loss. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque resulting from poor dental hygiene. In serious cases, periodontal disease can lead to other serious health conditions. The best way to prevent plaque buildup is by regular brushing and flossing.

● Halitosis – Also known as bad breath, halitosis is caused by old food debris in your mouth – usually stuck between your teeth. You should make a habit of swishing water in your mouth after meals, and also brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day to keep your mouth healthy and your breath smelling fresh.

● Staining – Teeth staining can be caused by anything you put in your mouth, including tobacco products, colored foods and drinks, and even some medications. Regular brushing and flossing helps to remove these staining agents from your teeth, reducing the risk of discoloration.

How to Brush and Floss Properly
Dental professionals recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day, preferably in the morning and before going to bed, using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Also:

● Use a brush with a head that is small enough to reach all areas of your mouth

● Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle at the gum line

● Brush your teeth and gum line gently using small circular motions

● Use minimal pressure to avoid damaging tooth enamel and your gums

● Brush every area of your mouth – all tooth surfaces, tongue, chewing surfaces, cheek side

The ADA also recommends the use of electric toothbrushes with oscillating or rotating heads.

Since you can’t properly brush between the teeth, it is critical to use dental floss every day to clean these inter-dental regions. Wrap the floss around your fingers and work it gently between your teeth, forming a U-shape around each tooth as you move toward the gum line. Do this several times as you go around your mouth.

Keep in mind that proper at-home dental care can be supplemented with chewing sugar-free gum after meals. Also, make sure to visit your dentist every 6 months for professional cleaning and an oral examination.

& most importantly – have a great Holiday season & a Happy New Year!! 🙂