Oral Hygiene

The Importance of Daily Oral Hygiene

Did you know that gum disease, not cavities, is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults over 35? In fact, nearly 75% of adults experience gum disease at some point. The most effective way to fight both cavities and gum disease is consistent brushing and flossing every day.

Plaque—a sticky, invisible layer of bacteria—forms on your teeth and along the gumline. If not removed daily, it can lead to serious oral health issues. Maintaining good hygiene helps eliminate plaque and keeps your smile healthy.

Brushing the Right Way

If brushing ever causes discomfort, don’t hesitate to call us at Three Oaks Dental. Dr. Garcia recommends using a soft or medium-bristled toothbrush. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle where your teeth and gums meet, and use gentle circular motions with small strokes. Avoid pressing too hard to prevent irritation.

After brushing the outer surfaces, follow the same technique on the inside of your back teeth. For front teeth, hold the brush vertically and gently clean each one. Don’t forget to brush along the gumline and the chewing surfaces. Finish by rinsing well to clear out loosened debris.

Flossing for Healthier Gums

To reach the areas your toothbrush can’t, flossing is essential. Start with about 18 inches of waxed dental floss. Wrap most of it around one middle finger, and a smaller portion around the other. Use a back-and-forth motion to gently slide the floss between your teeth.

Once at the gumline, curve the floss into a “C” shape and slide it beneath the gum. Clean both sides of each tooth and move to a fresh section of floss as you go. Be gentle to avoid hurting your gums—bleeding in the beginning is normal and should subside with regular flossing.

Managing Sensitive Teeth

It's common to experience sensitivity after dental work. This is temporary if you maintain good hygiene. However, if your teeth remain sensitive, consult our team. We may recommend toothpaste or rinses specifically designed to relieve sensitivity and protect enamel.

Choosing the Right Dental Products

With so many dental products on the shelves, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Powered or electric toothbrushes like Rotadent or Interplak are safe and effective. Oral irrigators are helpful for rinsing, but should be used with brushing and flossing—not as a replacement.

Some toothbrushes feature rubber gum stimulators, and small interproximal brushes are great for cleaning between teeth, though they must be used properly to avoid damaging the gums. Ask our team for guidance if you're unsure.

Fluoride toothpastes and rinses can reduce the risk of cavities significantly—up to 40% when used daily. However, mouth rinses containing fluoride are not suitable for children under six. Anti-plaque rinses approved by the ADA can also help manage early signs of gum disease when combined with proper brushing and flossing.

The Value of Professional Cleanings

Even the most diligent daily routine can’t remove all buildup. That’s why routine professional cleanings at Three Oaks Dental are essential. We can remove hardened plaque (calculus) that brushing and flossing miss. These visits help prevent gum disease and keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime.