Periodontal Disease - Diagnosis

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Be sure to rinse your toothbrush with water after each use. Toothbrushes should be replaced every 1 - 3 months. Not only do they become breeding grounds for bacteria, but the worn bristles are less effective at removing plaque. To prevent the spread of infection, never share toothbrushes.

Flossing

The use of dental floss, either waxed or unwaxed, is critical in cleaning between the teeth where the toothbrush bristles cannot reach. To floss correctly:

• Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around the middle finger of one hand and the rest around the other middle finger.
• Hold the floss between the thumbs and forefingers and gently guide and rub it back and forth between the teeth.
• When it reaches the gum line, the floss should be curved around each tooth and slid gently back and forth against the gum.
• Finally, rub gently up and down against the tooth. Repeat with each tooth, including the outside of the back teeth.

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Here are some tips in choosing the right floss or flossing device:

• Use a floss that does not shred or break.
• Avoid a very thin floss, which can cut the gum if brought down with too much force or not guided along the side of the tooth.
• A floss threader may be helpful for people who have bridgework. Made of plastic, it looks like a needle with a huge eye, or loop. A piece of floss is threaded into the loop, which can then be inserted between the bridge and the gum. The floss that is carried through with it can then be used to clean underneath the false tooth or teeth and along the sides of the abutting teeth.
• Another handy device for cleaning under bridges is a Proxabrush, which is an interdental cleaner. This is a tiny narrow brush that can be worked in between the natural teeth and around the attached false tooth or teeth.
• Special toothpicks such as Stim-U-Dent may be used for wide spaces between teeth but should never replace flossing. Standard toothpicks should never be used for regular hygiene.
• Electric water piks may also be helpful.

Toothpastes and Mouthwashes

Toothpaste. Toothpastes are a combination of abrasives, binders, colors, detergents, flavors, fluoride, humectants, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners. Avoid highly abrasive toothpastes, especially if your gums have receded. The objective of a good toothpaste is to reduce the development of plaque and eliminate periodontal-causing bacteria without destroying the organisms that are important for a healthy mouth.

Ingredients contained in toothpastes may include: