March 1, 2013
Doctors have cited evidence that there is a link between good oral hygiene and one’s overall health. Diabetes and gum disease are related but it has been recently found that heart disease, certain infections, and strokes may also be linked to the state of your teeth. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks is one thing we can do to help keep teeth and gums in good condition. Consumption of fruits and vegetables is a great way to support your oral health.
Proper Brushing Of Teeth
• Proper tooth brushing technique. Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• Use the “toe” of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Proper Flossing of Teeth
- Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.
- Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.
- When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
- Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions.
- Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth.
- Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.
In addition to personal maintenance of one’s teeth seeing a dentist for regular checkups is important. Dental insurance plans offer coverage that includes preventive activities such as x-rays and cleaning. In the event that one needs fillings, crowns, or other expensive dental work it is a relief to have dental insurance. To find the right dental insurance plan for your requirements visit California Health Plans or call 1-800-585-1776.
