The Importance of Using a Mouthwash

Mouthwashes are used for a variety of reasons:

• to freshen breath
• help prevent or control tooth decay
• reduce plaque (a thin film of bacteria that forms on teeth)
• prevent or reduce gingivitis (an early stage of gum disease)
• reduce the speed that tartar (hardened plaque) forms on the teeth or to produce a combination of these effects.

Most mouthwashes are available without a prescription. Your dentist can advise you whether you need a mouthwash and what kind of mouthwash to use depending on your oral health needs.

There are two types of mouthwashes:

• Therapeutic mouthwashes. These can help reduce plaque, gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath. Those that contain fluoride help prevent or reduce tooth decay.
• Cosmetic mouthwashes. These may temporarily control or reduce bad breath and leave the mouth with a pleasant taste, but don’t deal with the causes of bad breath, kill the bacteria that cause bad breath; or help reduce plaque, gingivitis or cavities.

If you have difficulty brushing and flossing, a mouthwash may provide additional protection against cavities and gum disease. Remember to ask your dentist for the right mouthwash for you!

Please visit www.precioussmiles.com for more information

How To Floss Properly

Flossing is an essential part of any oral health care routine. It helps remove plaque from between your teeth, in areas that the toothbrush can't reach, and it helps prevent gum disease and dental decay. Plaque that is not removed with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth can eventually harden into calculus or tartar.
People who have difficulty handling dental floss may prefer to use another kind of interdental cleaner such as special brushes. If you use interdental cleaners, ask your dentist how to use them properly to avoid injuring your gums.

Here are some tips on 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.

Talk to your dentist about what types of oral care products will be most effective for you.
For more information visit www.precioussmiles.com or call (305) 532-9114