Oral Hygiene Tips From Dr. Krochak
At NYC Smile Spa, we specialize in a number of treatments and can help patients with a wide range of issues, but right now, we want to take a few moments to get to the heart of dentistry — oral health care. Although many of our patients have learned about the importance of oral hygiene since early childhood, we still have a number of patients who are brushing and flossing incorrectly. Over time, this leads to serious oral health complications, not only causing decay, but periodontal health issues as well. Dr. Krochak recently created a video explaining in great detail the proper way to brush and floss your teeth. Are you doing it correctly? Click here to watch the video and find out!
Proper Brushing Techniques
As Dr. Krochak explains in the video, an electric toothbrush is a much better option and is more effective at removing plaque. He recommends the Oral B Braun because the head and bristles are smaller, making it easier to get into the nooks and crannies on the teeth. He also specifies that adults should focus their brushing more along the gumline versus the top of the teeth because plaque accumulates under the gumline. He explains that you should hold the brush at a 45 degree angle at the gumline and begin slowly making your way around, being mindful to brush half tooth and half gum. He recommends doing this on the outer teeth and inner teeth 2 or 3 times.
Proper Flossing Techniques
Everyone needs to floss to reach the plaque that remains between the teeth after brushing. An overabundance of plaque eventually becomes tarter, increasing inflammation, bone loss, and periodontal disease. Dr. Krochak mentions that most people floss their teeth incorrectly. He sees that they use too much floss and do not hold it effectively. He offered 3 tips:
- Wrap floss around both middle fingers
- Control a small piece at a time
- Make a C – curve the floss under the gumline of each tooth rather than just up and down
If you are located on the Upper East Side and are in need of a hygiene examination and cleaning, have further questions about brushing or flossing, or are in need of additional treatments, be sure to contact our office to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Your Friends at NYC Smile Spa
