ORAL HEALTH
It’s easier than you think!
Just a few minutes twice a day can help keep your mouth and your whole body healthy. There are many options for a daily routine, the trick is to find what works for you. Talk with the hygienist at Brighter Maine Smiles to find what fits your lifestyle.
Here are the basics:
Flossing removes the bacterial plaque from under the gum line, preventing gingivitis and gum disease. It also removes plaque in between the teeth that cause cavities. There are toothpicks (the most environmentally friendly), string floss, floss sticks, electric flossers, water pics, interdental brushes and many more gadgets that will disrupt the bacteria.
Flossing once a day and brushing for 2 minutes 2X a day helps remove bacterial plaque that forms on teeth. Some of those bacteria (germs) cause cavities, others cause gum disease. Bacterial plaque is the fuzzy stuff that builds up on your teeth throughout the day and you can feel it with your tongue. Angle the toothbrush toward the gums and brush gently in small circles. Consider an electric toothbrush, it does in 2 minutes what a manual takes 5 minutes to do!
Antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce gingivitis, and one with fluoride can help prevent cavities. Make sure to read the directions, and don’t let kids have mouthwash before they can spit it out into the sink.
Brighter Maine Smiles brings Maine people dental hygiene care that is affordable and easy to access. We accept MaineCare and have a sliding fee scale for adults ranging from $35 – $60.00. We can help with referrals for you and your family, whether it is for dental x-rays and an exam, a filling, oral surgeon or an orthodontist.
Read more about dental care for various stages of life: