Monthly Archives: January 2019

Four Ways to Clean Between Teeth

Ruth Mickelson, RDH

Four Ways to Clean Between Teeth

When thinking about cleaning between teeth, floss will probably come to mind. This is a great way to clean between teeth, but it is not the only way! There are other oral hygiene aids that are available and it’s not one size fits all. Below are options with the benefits and uses for each one. 

1. String dental floss. With proper technique, this is effective in removing plaque and reducing gingivitis and risk for non-reversible periodontal disease. There are many types of string floss and between waxed, tape and spongey floss, there is an option suitable for everyone. Waxed floss is great for the average person but may rip or tear. For those with tight contacts, a smooth floss like the Glide Oral B is useful. It’s easier to get into the tooth contact without breaking. Spongey floss like the Glide Super Floss is useful for people with bridge restorations, spacious contacts, or those wearing braces. The Super floss has a stiff end that allows for directing the floss under the bridge or orthodontic appliance. The spongey part of the floss is great for attaching to plaque and removing it from the teeth and gums. Another great point about sting floss is that it is generally inexpensive. For some, sting floss can be difficult to use. It does take practice to feel comfortable using it but after learning, can be done in just a few minutes. 
2. Mounted Floss Picks. Many people love floss picks for their convivence! There are even floss picks called platypus flosser specifically made for patients with braces. These are a great option for people with limited dexterity such as children. Because there is only a small amount of floss being used, it is instructed to rinse off plaque as needed between teeth and then dispose of pick.
3. Water floss. This is great for gum stimulation and removing large pieces of plaque or food that it stuck. This is a good option for those with limited dexterity, those with tight contacts, and those who have a hard time using other flossing aids.
4. Proxabrushes. This come in a variety of sizes and different handle. They are used to clean between wide contacts, around orthodontic braces and in some cases be useful under bridge restorations. 

One person could benefit from using more than one type of interdental aid, depending on the area od the mouth. No matter what oral hygiene aids are used to clean between teeth, it is important to use proper technique in order for them to be effective. Speak with a dental professional for instructions on how to use any oral hygiene aids. 

Want to learn more? Visit us at

http://www.shalimarfamilydentistry.com

http://www.northstapleydentalcare.com

http://www.alamedadentalaz.com

http://www.dentistingilbert.com

Sources:

https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/why-oral-b/floss/types-of-floss-choosing-right-floss-for-you

https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/solutions/floss/benefits-flossing-your-teeth

https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/solutions/floss/dental-floss-types-pros-cons

How to Clean Your Denture/Partial Denture 

Lindsay Olsen, RDH BSDH

How to Clean Your Denture/Partial Denture 

• Rinse your dentures before brushing to remove any loose food or debris. 
• Use a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser to gently brush all the surfaces of the dentures so they don’t get scratched.
• When brushing, clean your mouth thoroughly—including your gums, cheeks, roof of your mouth and tongue to remove any plaque. This can help reduce the risk of oral irritation and bad breath. 
• When you’re not wearing your dentures, put them in a safe place covered in water to keep them from warping.
• Do not sleep with your dentures. Your tissues need to breath overnight. If you do not take out your dentures at night, you are at risk of developing oral fungal infections. 
• Occasionally, denture wearers may use adhesives. Adhesives come in many forms: creams, powders, pads/wafers, strips or liquids. If you use one of these products, read the instructions, and use them exactly as directed. Your dentist can recommend appropriate cleansers and adhesives.
• Visit your dentist once every 6 months for a complimentary oral cancer screening, and to have the fit of your denture evaluated. 

 

Want to learn more? Visit us at

http://www.shalimarfamilydentistry.com

http://www.northstapleydentalcare.com

http://www.alamedadentalaz.com

http://www.dentistingilbert.com

Sources:

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/dentures

How To Care For Your Infants Teeth

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Lora Cook, RDH

How to care for your infants teeth.

When to start cleaning your baby’s teeth.

You can start before your baby even has teeth, it is best to incorporate mouth cleaning at bath time.  This routine will help your baby get used to you cleaning their mouth, which can allow a smoother transition when you do begin to brushing their teeth. This will also help you to know when your babies teeth first start to push through their gum tissue.

The bacteria that lives in the mouth is not harmful to the gum tissue, but can be harmful to the teeth.  The enamel on baby teeth are 50% thinner than adult teeth.  Therefore baby teeth are more susceptible to the bacteria that causes cavities.

How to clean your infants teeth.

To clean your babies mouth before tooth eruption use a clean wet wash cloth.  Wrap wash cloth around your finger then rub it gently around your babies gums.

When to transition to a tooth brush.

When the teeth have started to erupt, this will be time to transition from a wash cloth to a baby tooth brush.  Look for a tooth brush specifically made for infants. This will usually start around six months old.  This will also be the time to change from bath time mouth cleaning to brushing two times daily.

It is fine to just dry brush with just tap water, or a fluoridated tooth paste can be used. When using toothpaste, use the tiniest smear.  It is never too early to help create a good brushing routine for your child.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

http://www.shalimarfamilydentistry.com

http://www.northstapleydentalcare.com

http://www.alamedadentalaz.com

http://www.dentistingilbert.com

Sources:

https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/infants/caring-for-baby-teeth-gums.

https://www.mambaby.com/en-us/faq/oral-care-teethers/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI24-c-oih1QIV05d-Ch0rNgnXEAAYAiAAEgL24PD_BwE

Why Do I Always Have Bad Breath?

Becky Larson, RDH

Why Do I Always Have Bad Breath?

As a Dental Hygienist, I frequently get asked about bad breath.  Many patients suffer from chronic bad breath, or halitosis, and are constantly seeking a cure!  Here’s the deal with halitosis:

  • Halitosis is chronic bad breath
  • Not cured by mints, mouth wash, or brushing
  • Remains for an extended period of time
  • May be a symptom of something more serious

Possible underlying issues that result in halitosis:

  • Cavities
  • Periodontal disease
  • Mouth, nose, or throat infections
  • Poor oral health
  • Certain foods and beverages
  • Dry mouth
  • Smoking/tobacco use
  • Other chronic conditions

Cavities and periodontal disease are both caused by different types of bacteria.  Infections are also caused by bacteria that feed on mucus produced by the body.  Left untreated, all of these bacteria can cause odors in the mouth that contribute to bad breath.  Poor oral hygiene can leave plaque and calculus on the teeth, also contributing to bad odors.  An obvious cause of bad breath would be a diet of potent foods such as garlic and onions.  Usually odors from these foods can be eliminated after brushing/flossing/rinsing, so if the odors persist, there is most likely a more pressing underlying issue.   Saliva helps rinse the mouth and remove debris after eating.  When saliva flow is decreased the removal of debris is also decreased and leftover food in the mouth could be one cause of bad breath.   Smoking and/or tobacco use come with their own associated odors but can also contribute to periodontal disease, which can be a major cause of halitosis.  Chronic conditions such as gastric reflux, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, etc. may also contribute to halitosis.  Our mouths are connected to our bodies and chronic diseases may present with signs or symptoms in the mouth.

How to treat and prevent halitosis:

  • Perform frequent and proper oral hygiene at home including brushing, flossing, and mouth wash
  • Visit your dentist and dental hygienist regularly for cleanings and necessary restorative work
  • Avoid smoking or tobacco use of any kind
  • Drink more water to stimulate saliva flow
  • Keep track or change what you eat, eliminating more potent foods like garlic and onions
  • Visit your primary care physician regularly

For specific questions or concerns about halitosis, ask your Dentist or Dental Hygienist.

 

Want to learn more? Visit us at

http://www.shalimarfamilydentistry.com

http://www.northstapleydentalcare.com

http://www.alamedadentalaz.com

http://www.dentistingilbert.com

Sources:

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/bad-breath#1

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/halitosis