Q. Why do we brush our teeth?

• It is important to remove the dental plaque and food that stick to teeth, and cause decay and gum disease. 
• Brushing and flossing are the most effective ways of controlling plaque. 
• You need to be aware of the fact that plaque is being formed continuously. 
• Plaque formation and growth cannot be stopped. Plaque can only be controlled by regular daily removal. 

Q. What are the recommended techniques for brushing teeth?

• We recommend two methods for brushing teeth. They both use the same angled position of the brush: Place the brush at a 45-degree angle towards the junction of the tooth and the gum. This is the position for brushing the sides of the teeth. 
  

  One suggested method is to brush gently in a circular movement.  Another technique is known as the gentle scrub method.

• The brush is moved backwards and forwards horizontally in very short strokes. 
• Each stroke is no more than the width of one tooth. 
• Brush all the tooth surfaces of all the teeth. 
• Brush behind the front teeth with an up and down movement using the end of the brush.
• Brushing should be unhurried and thorough. 
• Partial dentures should be removed for the efficient brushing of the remaining teeth. 
  Toothbrush position

Q. Why it is important to use dental floss. 

• Dental Floss is the most efficient way to clean between teeth. 
• Different types of floss are available, such as regular floss, dental tape and super floss. 
• Floss is also available on a plastic holder, in the shape of a bow. The string of the bow is slipped between the teeth and makes flossing more manageable. 

Interdental brushing

Q. Can brushing damage teeth?

• Toothwear, the wearing away of the enamel and dentine, can be caused by brushing too vigorously, and by using a toothbrush with a very hard bristle. 
• This type of toothwear is called abrasion. 
• It usually takes place at the gum margin, where the enamel is thin, and is easily worn away. 
• Brushing across the teeth with long horizontal strokes is the main cause of abrasion. Gentle brushing is all that is necessary.

Abrasion

Q. What is the ideal toothbrush?

• The ideal toothbrush should meet the following requirements: 
• It should have a head that is small enough, and correctly angled, to reach all the teeth. 
• The brush should be multi-tufted, and have a medium/soft texture. 
• Hard bristles can damage teeth and gums, and are not recommended. 
• The bristles should be made of nylon, and their ends need to be rounded. 
• Bristles made from synthetic rather than natural materials are preferable for hygienic reasons. Natural bristles may be porous and are likely to absorb bacteria. 

Q. What type of toothbrush is suitable for children?

• A toothbrush with a small head is recommended, so that children can use it easily, and it will not cause gagging when they brush their back teeth. 
• The handle should have the correct length and thickness. It must be easy to use and provide a firm grip. 
• Toothbrushes can easily be modified if difficulty is experienced with a regular brush.
• Brushes for children often have handles and heads that are brightly coloured, and show cartoon characters. Brushing needs to be a fun experience! 

Q. How often should your toothbrush be changed?

• The toothbrush should be changed at the first sign of wear. 
• The bristles may become flattened and lose their shape. 
• Bristles wear differently from person to person depending on how the toothbrush is used. 
• Plaque removal becomes less efficient with an old worn toothbrush. 
• It is recommended that you to change your toothbrush every four to six months. 

Q. Are electric toothbrushes recommended by dentists?

• Electric toothbrushes have proven to be very successful in maintaining good oral health, and removing plaque. 
• The action of the brush is more efficient than the manual brush for cleaning teeth. 
• Electric toothbrushes are recommended for the elderly and people with arthritis or other disabilities, who may find it difficult to manage with a manual toothbrush. 
• Children enjoy the fun of using an electric toothbrush. It will result in a more thorough cleaning of their teeth, particularly at an early age. 
• As they grow older it may be less important to use an electric toothbrush. 
• It is effective with fixed orthodontic appliances. 
• Remember that the cleaning of teeth will only be successful, if the motivation exists to have healthy teeth and gums. 
• Electric toothbrushes may provide interest and motivation for people who are reluctant to brush their teeth properly. 
• Consult your dentist and follow the manufacturer's instructions. 

Q. What is Oral Hygiene and Plaque?

• Oral hygiene refers to keeping the mouth, and particularly the teeth, clean and free of dental plaque. 
• "Daily oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing can prevent both caries and gingivitis." 
• The above should be combined with a daily flouride mouthwash. 
• You are also advised to see your dentist twice a year for professional cleaning. 
  Healthy teeth, gum and bone

Q. What are dental plaque, calculus or tartar?

• Dental plaque is a thin film of bacteria and other organic material that sticks to teeth. 
• Plaque cannot be rinsed off, but it can be removed by brushing and flossing. 
• If plaque is not removed, it can cause periodontal disease. 
• The longer that plaque is allowed to remain on teeth, the greater are the risks of gum disease. 
• If plaque is not removed, it can harden to form calculus. 
• Calculus causes gum problems. It should be professionally removed as regular brushing will not do so. 
• Calculus occurs more often in older children and adults. 
• Diets rich in soft, sticky, carbohydrate foods with high sugar contents encourage plaque formation. 

Q. What is the best way to control dental plaque?

• Brushing and flossing will control plaque formation. 
• Brush and floss twice a day, after breakfast and before bedtime. 
• Rinse daily with a fluoride mouthwash. 
• Eating less refined sugar will reduce plaque formation. 
• Professional cleaning

  Professional cleaning by the hygienist, dentist or periodontist will include:  Scaling, which is the professional removal of plaque and calculus.  Root planing, which is the smoothing and polishing of root surfaces.  Scaling and planing must be carried out regularly to control the disease.  Regular return or recall visits to the periodontist, dentist or hygienist are therefore essential

Q. How will my teeth look and feel after treatment?

• Shrinkage of the gums can result and teeth may look longer. 
• When gum grafting has been done, the appearance is improved. 
• Loose teeth should firm up after treatment. 
• The exposed roots of the teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold

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