5 Steps to a Flawless Floss

We know we should floss at least once a day, but not everyone knows the right way to do it. Use this step-by-step guide to find out how to properly floss your 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.

Once you’re finished, throw the floss away. A used piece of floss won’t be as effective and could leave bacteria behind in your mouth. 

Talk to your dentist about what types of oral care products will be most effective for you. Look for products that contain the ADA Seal of Acceptance so you know they have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.

Dental Hygiene Tips for Kids

Dental Hygiene Tips For Kids One of the best ways to prevent tooth decay in children is to get them enthusiastic about daily dental hygiene. After all, tooth brushing is probably not at the top of your child’s list of favorite things to do. But you can make it more acceptable – and even fun — by choosing a toothpaste and toothbrush that your child will like and will want to use. Look for toothpaste with fluoride that’s child-friendly, with flavors and colors that appeal to kids, such as Kid’s Crest. There are toothpaste choices more appropriate to adult needs as well, so many families find themselves using more than one type of toothpaste. Knowing how to brush your teeth is just as important as the type of toothpaste you choose. Teach children the proper technique early to help encourage them to develop good oral health habits. Explaining how to brush your teeth doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with these simple steps to get kids off to a good start. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums. Move the brush back and forth gently, in short strokes, over the fronts, backs, and tops of your teeth. Don’t scrub hard along the gum line; you can irritate your gums. Don’t forget to brush (and floss) behind your top front teeth and behind the bottom front teeth. (The area behind the bottom front teeth is prone to tartar buildup and needs attention.) Use the top bristles of the brush to reach this area—some toothbrushes have a slightly longer tip to make it easier to reach these spots.

Experts say that your oral health could clue you in to the condition of your heart — so listen up! Here's what you should know about the links between your teeth, gums, and ticker.

 

 

 

 

 

How is this related to your heart? The bacteria may increase your risk for heart disease by contributing to the formation of clots or further plaque build-up in your arteries that can interfere with blood flow to the heart.

However, it will take long-term clinical trials to more directly identify gum disease as a cause of heart disease. “We’re not going to have the answers to these questions for quite some time,” Spalding says.

Meanwhile, researchers are also uncovering possible links between gum disease and stroke, osteoporosis, diabetes, respiratory disease, and even preterm babies.

Important Steps for Your Teeth (and Heart)

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, half of all people over age 55 have gum disease. Gum disease is also the main reason people 35 and older lose their teeth.

Your risk for gum disease increases as you get older, but staying on top of your dental health should start in childhood. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help you keep gum disease at bay.

If you happen to notice any of these symptoms, let your dentist know immediately — they could be warning signs of gum disease.

• Sour taste in the mouth
• Persistent bad breath
• Bleeding gums
• Swollen, tender gums
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Pain when chewing

And remember: Preventing gum disease — or treating it with deep cleanings, medication, or surgery — may just help you prevent heart problems down the road.