Is Flossing Really That Important?

At the dental office of Dr. Shirley Cagle in The Woodlands, we hear this question often, “Is flossing really that important?” The short answer is, “Yes, flossing is that important.” And here’s why.

Flossing is a crucial part of having a healthy mouth and healthy gums. In fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends daily flossing in order to achieve optimal oral health. By properly flossing, you’re able to remove food particles, plaque and bacteria that forms between teeth, something that brushing alone can’t do.

While brushing is a very important to the well being of your mouth, to get the healthiest mouth possible, it should be paired with flossing. A proper brushing-flossing combination reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease, and makes your dentist in The Woodlands very happy!

Flossing Tips for Healthy Gums

• Floss before brushing your teeth
• Glide the floss in between each tooth using a sawing motion
• Angle the floss in a “c” shape around the tooth and slightly below the gumline
• Repeat on the opposite tooth
• Unravel the floss from your fingers, supplying fresh floss for each set of teeth
• Finish up with a proper brushing

Even if you brush twice a day and floss daily, it’s still important to maintain regular visits to your dental office in The Woodlands. Due for a checkup or professional cleaning? Don’t worry. Call Dr. Shirley Cagle today to schedule your appointment today.

Are You Brushing Your Teeth Correctly?

For most people, brushing their teeth is simply something they do. It’s ingrained into their routines. They wake up, brush, go about their day, brush, go to bed. The fact that they’re brushing should be good enough, right? At Dr. Shirley Cagle’s dental office in The Woodlands we don’t think so, and you shouldn’t either.

Brushing your teeth isn’t so much about whether or not you do it -- although that is pretty important -- it’s more about how you brush.

By correctly brushing your teeth, you’re effectively removing plaque, tartar and bacteria, which protects your pearly whites from cavities, gum disease and a variety of other dental problems. Proper brushing also helps keep your teeth free of dangerous surface abrasions and can aid in keeping your gums healthy.

To correctly brush your teeth, it’s important that you follow some basic rules.

●      Brush at least twice a day

●      Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

●      Aim the bristles at a 45-degree angle

●      Use a soft, circular motion instead of a horizontal “scrubbing” technique

●      Clean every surface of each tooth, including the front, back and chewing area

●      Be sure to brush your tongue each time as well

Practicing optimal brushing techniques is sure to help protect overall oral health. However, it’s still very important to maintain regular visits to your dentist in The Woodlands and get professional cleanings as recommended. If you’re due for a cleaning or checkup, call Dr. Shirley Cagle to schedule an appointment today!