Dental Hygiene

Can I Brush my teeth after filling?

can i brush my teeth after a new dental filling?

It’s generally advisable to wait for a short period after getting a dental filling before brushing your teeth. The time you should wait can vary depending on the type of filling material used and your dentist’s recommendations.

If you’ve had a composite (tooth-colored) filling, it’s a good idea to wait until the anesthesia has worn off and then you can usually brush your teeth as usual. This is because composite fillings set and harden quickly with the help of a curing light used by the dentist.

For amalgam (silver) fillings, it’s typically recommended to wait for 24 hours before brushing your teeth after the filling procedure. This allows the filling to set and harden properly.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your dentist, as they may have individual recommendations based on the type of filling, the size of the filling, and other factors related to your oral health. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s best to contact your dentist for guidance.

what are the different types of fillings – pros vs. cons?

Dental fillings are used to repair and restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. There are several types of dental fillings, each with its own set of pros and cons. The most common types of dental fillings include:

Amalgam Fillings:
- Pros:
  - Durable and long-lasting.
  - Cost-effective.
  - Well-suited for large cavities in back teeth.
  - Quick and easy to place.
- Cons:
  - Contains mercury, which raises concerns for some patients.
  - May not match the color of natural teeth, making them more noticeable.
Composite Fillings:
- Pros:
  - Tooth-colored and can be closely matched to natural tooth color.
  - Bonds directly to the tooth, providing additional support.
  - Versatile and can be used for small to medium-sized cavities in front or back teeth.
- Cons:
  - Less durable than amalgam, may need replacement sooner.
  - Typically more expensive than amalgam.
  - May take longer to place than amalgam.
Ceramic Fillings (Inlays and Onlays):
- Pros:
  - Tooth-colored and aesthetically pleasing.
  - Resistant to staining.
  - Long-lasting and durable.
- Cons:
  - More expensive than amalgam and composite fillings.
  - Requires more than one dental visit for placement.
Glass Ionomer Fillings:
- Pros:
  - Releases fluoride, which can help prevent further decay.
  - Bonds well to the tooth structure.
  - Suitable for small to medium-sized cavities, particularly in non-biting surfaces.
- Cons:
  - Not as durable as amalgam or composite fillings.
  - Prone to wear and may need replacement sooner.
Gold Filling:
- Pros:
  - Highly durable and long-lasting.
  - Well-tolerated by gum tissues.
- Cons:
  - Expensive.
  - Does not match the color of natural teeth.
Composite Resin and Glass Ionomer Cement (Resin-modified Glass Ionomer) Fillings:
- Pros:
  - Combines the benefits of composite and glass ionomer fillings.
  - Tooth-colored.
  - Releases fluoride.
- Cons:
  - May not be as durable as some other options.

The choice of filling material depends on factors such as the size and location of the cavity, cosmetic concerns, durability, and cost. It’s important to consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable option for your specific dental needs. Additionally, advancements in dental materials continue to evolve, and new options may become available over time.

best oral hygiene after a filling.

After getting a cavity filling, it’s important to regularly go to the dental office in order to maintain good oral hygiene to promote healing and prevent further dental issues. Here are some general tips:

Wait Before Brushing: You may want to wait for a short period before brushing around the filled tooth. Your dentist will provide specific instructions based on the type of filling and the materials used. Some dentists recommend waiting for a few hours or even until the next day.
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: When you do start brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid causing irritation or damage to the filled area. Gentle brushing is essential to keep the area clean without putting too much pressure on the filling. Brush in a circular motion to loosing food particles.
Be Gentle with Flossing: Flossing is important for cleaning between teeth and preventing decay. Be gentle around the filled tooth while flossing to avoid dislodging the filling or causing discomfort. You might want to use waxed floss, which can be less likely to catch on the filling.
Antibacterial Mouthwash: Consider using an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash as part of your oral hygiene routine. This can help reduce the risk of infection and strengthen your teeth. Use special care and avoid harsh chemicals in commercial toothpastes. Avoid fluoride toothpaste. They can be harsh on your gums and teeth. avoid a fluoride rinse.
Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: For a short period after getting a filling, it’s a good idea to avoid sticky and hard foods that could potentially damage the filling or cause discomfort. Eat softer foods instead of crunchy foods if you have a newly filled tooth or even a temporary dental filling for a tooth cavity. You may have sensitive teeth and gums, and tooth enamel, so it may be a good idea to avoid hot and cold beverages. Right after a filling ensure minimal chewing or excessive pressure
Regular Dental Check-ups: Continue with regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your fillings and address any issues early on. Do not wait a long time for your next appointment. Set long term appointments. Set regular checkups. At the dentist’s office, you can get the latest status on your overall dental health. Major dental problems can be prevented if you keep up regular care for the health of your teeth and gums. Follow-up appointments are essential.
Watch for Signs of Problems: Keep an eye out for any signs of problems such as increased sensitivity, pain, or changes in the way your bite feels. If you notice anything unusual, contact your dentist promptly.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet contributes to overall oral health. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay.

Remember, it’s crucial to follow the specific post-operative instructions given by your dentist. If you have any concerns or questions about caring for your filled tooth, don’t hesitate to contact your dental professional for guidance.

Bad breath is a sign of periodontal bacteria

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can indeed be associated with periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria that accumulate in the spaces between the teeth and gums, forming plaque and tartar. These bacteria release sulfur compounds, which can contribute to bad breath.

The following factors related to periodontal disease may contribute to bad breath:

Bacterial buildup: The bacteria in plaque and tartar produce foul-smelling compounds, including sulfur compounds, which can result in bad breath.
Gum inflammation: Periodontal disease often involves inflammation of the gums. Inflamed gums can harbor more bacteria and contribute to bad breath.
Pockets between teeth and gums: As periodontal disease progresses, pockets can form between the teeth and gums, providing a space for bacteria to thrive and produce odorous compounds.

It’s essential to address the underlying cause of bad breath to effectively treat the issue. Regular dental hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, are crucial for preventing and managing periodontal disease. Additionally, professional dental cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar that may contribute to bad breath.

If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, it’s advisable to consult with a dentist for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment recommendations. Other factors, such as dry mouth, certain medical conditions, or dietary habits, can also contribute to bad breath, so a comprehensive evaluation is important.

why killing periodontal bacteria is so important.

Killing periodontal bacteria is crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing periodontal diseases. Periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are inflammatory conditions that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. These diseases are primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth.

Here are several reasons why killing periodontal bacteria is important:

Prevention of Gum Inflammation (Gingivitis): Plaque buildup can lead to inflammation of the gums, a condition known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Killing the bacteria in plaque helps prevent and manage gingivitis.
Halting Disease Progression: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis involves the loss of the bone that supports the teeth, leading to tooth mobility and, eventually, tooth loss. Eliminating the bacteria is crucial to stop the progression of periodontal diseases.
Preventing Tooth Loss: Periodontal diseases are a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. By controlling and eliminating the bacteria responsible for these diseases, the risk of tooth loss is significantly reduced.
Systemic Health Benefits: There is evidence suggesting a link between periodontal health and overall health. Periodontal bacteria and the inflammation associated with gum disease may contribute to systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Maintaining oral health by killing periodontal bacteria can have positive effects on overall well-being.
Preserving Supporting Structures: Periodontal bacteria can cause damage to the structures supporting the teeth, including the periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone. Eliminating the bacteria helps preserve these structures and maintains the stability of the teeth within the jawbone.

Methods for killing periodontal bacteria include good oral hygiene practices such as regular and effective brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings. In some cases, antimicrobial mouthwashes or antibiotics may be prescribed to address bacterial infections.

Overall, maintaining a healthy oral environment by controlling and eliminating periodontal bacteria is essential for preventing the onset and progression of periodontal diseases and promoting overall oral and systemic health. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings play a crucial role in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health.

Traditional Floss vs floss picks – good and effective?

Floss vs Floss Picks

Floss and floss picks are both dental hygiene tools used to clean between teeth and remove food particles and plaque. However, they have some differences in terms of their design, convenience, and effectiveness. Here’s a comparison between the two:

Design:
- Floss: Traditional dental floss consists of a long, thin strand of nylon or Teflon material. It is usually wound around the fingers of both hands to create tension for effectively cleaning between teeth.
- Floss Picks: Floss picks are small, plastic devices that have a short piece of floss stretched between two prongs. They often have a handle for better grip.
Convenience:
- Floss: Using traditional floss requires more dexterity and may take some practice to use effectively. It can be a bit more time-consuming and requires two hands for proper use.
- Floss Picks: Floss picks are generally more convenient, especially for people who have difficulty using traditional floss due to limited dexterity or reach. They are easy to hold and maneuver with one hand, making them suitable for on-the-go use.
Effectiveness:
- Floss: When used correctly, traditional floss can be highly effective in cleaning between teeth and removing debris and plaque. It can conform to the shape of the teeth and reach tight spaces.
- Floss Picks: Floss picks can be less effective than traditional floss for reaching certain areas, especially if teeth are tightly packed together. The rigid prongs may not be able to access all interdental spaces as effectively as traditional floss.
Environmental Impact:
- Floss: Traditional dental floss is typically made of nylon or Teflon and is not biodegradable. It can contribute to plastic waste when disposed of improperly.
- Floss Picks: Floss picks are also made of plastic, which can have a negative environmental impact. However, some manufacturers offer biodegradable or eco-friendly options.
Cost:
- Floss: Traditional dental floss is usually less expensive than floss picks on a per-unit basis.
- Floss Picks: Floss picks are often more expensive when compared unit-to-unit, but they may be more cost-effective for some individuals if they lead to more consistent flossing due to their convenience.

Dangers of Dental Bacteria

Dental bacteria, also known as oral bacteria or oral microbiota, can pose several dangers to oral health and, in some cases, overall health. While not all oral bacteria are harmful, some can contribute to various dental problems and systemic health issues. Here are some of the dangers associated with dental bacteria:

Tooth Decay (Cavities): The most common danger of dental bacteria is the development of cavities (dental caries). Bacteria, particularly Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus, produce acids when they feed on sugars and starches from food debris left on teeth. These acids can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities if not properly managed through oral hygiene.
Gingivitis: Dental bacteria can accumulate in the form of dental plaque along the gumline and between teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can lead to gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gums. Symptoms include redness, swelling, bleeding, and tenderness of the gums.
Periodontal Disease: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress into periodontal disease (periodontitis), a more severe condition. Periodontal disease involves the inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone. It can lead to gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss.
Bad Breath (Halitosis): Certain bacteria in the mouth can produce foul-smelling gases as they break down food particles and proteins. This can result in persistent bad breath, known as halitosis.
Oral Infections: In some cases, oral bacteria can cause infections, such as dental abscesses or oral thrush. These can be painful and require prompt dental treatment.
Systemic Health Risks: Research has shown potential links between oral health and systemic health. Chronic oral infections and inflammation may contribute to or exacerbate conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications. While the precise mechanisms are still being studied, it highlights the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.
Tooth Sensitivity: Some oral bacteria can contribute to tooth sensitivity by eroding enamel and exposing the sensitive dentin layer underneath.

To reduce the dangers of dental bacteria, it’s crucial to practice good oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing and flossing, routine dental check-ups, and a balanced diet with limited sugary and starchy foods. Dentists may also recommend the use of fluoride products, dental sealants, and antimicrobial mouthwashes to help prevent dental problems caused by bacteria. Maintaining overall health and addressing any oral health issues promptly can contribute to a healthier, happier smile.

In summary, the choice between floss and floss picks depends on individual preferences and needs. Some people prefer the thoroughness of traditional floss, while others find floss picks more convenient for daily use. It’s important to note that regular flossing, regardless of the method used, is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental issues.

Good Oral Hygiene Tips

If you would like to be able to smile with confidence, eat what you like and avoid painful and costly dental procedures well into your twilight years, then the importance of good oral hygiene cannot be exaggerated.

All too often we neglect our oral health by forgetting to follow a consistent dental hygiene routine at home and by putting off dentist check-ups. For this reason around two-thirds of adults in the United States develop gum disease and many more suffer from cavities or other dental problems.

You do not have to become a statistic. It is possible to protect your gum line and teeth from infection and cavities. All it takes is a little commitment to looking after your oral health and you can enjoy a dazzling smile and a healthy mouth all your adult life.

What constitutes good oral hygiene?

There are a few key steps that you need to follow in order to maintain good oral hygiene and health:

Brushing – you need to brush your teeth at least twice each day to reduce the plaque buildup and bacteria that grow on your teeth and gums. It is even more effective if you can manage to brush your teeth after every meal.

The reason that brushing is an essential step is that after you eat bacteria flourish in your mouth. These bacteria release toxins, which react with your saliva and produce plaque. Plaque is a yellowy, sticky substance that clings to your teeth and gums and leads to infection.

How to do it: In order to remove the maximum amount of bacteria and plaque from your mouth with each brushing, most dentists say that one ought to use an electric toothbrush (Oral-B for example) with swirling heads. If you are going to use a manual toothbrush, then it should have soft bristles as hard bristles can do harm to your gum tissue.

Place your bristles at a 45 degree angle from your teeth and brush away from the gums. Each brushing session should take about two minutes to complete. You start on the outside teeth, then move to the insides of the teeth and then brush on top of the teeth.

Flossing – Flossing is a very important part of your home dental hygiene routine. It is essential because little food particles often become lodged between your teeth. When these food particles are not removed, they release toxins that can cause the infection that leads to gum disease.

Some of the food particles are removed when you brush your teeth, but flossing can remove those that are in hard to reach places.

How to do it: Many people decide not to floss regularly because they find that it makes their gums bleed. If this is the case, then you are probably using the wrong technique.

First you need to choose an appropriate product. If you have sensitive gums, then it is a good idea to use a dental tape rather than traditional floss. Dental tape is a little wider than floss and is gentler on the gum tissue.

Take a 30 centimetre piece of the dental floss or tape and wrap one end around one of your index fingers and the other end around your other index finger about seven centimetres apart.

Start at the back of the bottom row of teeth. Slide the floss between the two teeth and gently guide it up and down against the tooth. Often people saw the floss back and forth across the gum tissue, which is certain to cause bleeding and discomfort. Using the correct technique and the correct product, you are unlikely to experience any problems with flossing.

Mouthwash – Using a mouthwash is the third stage of a good home dental hygiene routine. By using a mouthwash, you can flush away the remaining bacteria and plaque inside the mouth after brushing and flossing.

Not all mouthwashes are created equal however. You should look for a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol as this can damage gum tissue and cause dryness of the mouth, which can actually encourage bacterial growth.

These days there are also commercially available natural mouthwash products. These can be very effective and yet, make use of natural ingredients that will not cause the damage that some chemically-laden products can. Look for products that contain all-natural herbal ingredients.

Various herbal ingredients such as spearmint, peppermint, and almond oil may be effective in warding off disease and keeping your mouth fresh.

Dental Hygiene Habits

In addition to following and effective oral hygiene routine at home, there are a few things to do in order to ensure the health of your gums and teeth:

Dental check-ups – visit your dentist every six months for a thorough clean that will remove plaque in hard to reach places and tartar.
Look after your diet – bacteria love sugar so be sure to reduce the amount of sugary foods that you consume. You can also protect your teeth and gums by minimising the amount of processed food that you consume and maximising the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables that you consume.
Stay hydrated – make sure that you are drinking at least eight glasses of water a day in order to stay hydrated as well as to flush away bacteria that can settle in your gums and on your teeth throughout the day.
Reduce stress – stress is a major cause of illness. It can affect every aspect of your health from that of your teeth and gums to your digestion, immunity to viruses and mental health. Your entire well-being will be affected positively if you can learn to control stress effectively.

By consulting with your dentist and understanding the importance of following good oral hygiene tips, you will be able to avoid a lot of dental decay as you age. This directly translates into positive outcomes for your enjoyment of life as you get older. You can take action today by implementing a natural chemical-free solution.

Poor Oral Hygiene – The Missing Link to Chronic Disease

Unfortunately, most people really take their oral health for granted and do not stay on top of caring for their teeth and gums as vigilantly as they should. Poor oral hygiene and disease are closely linked together, so if you have been guilty of putting your dental care routine on the back burner every now and again, then you need to step up your game.

Most commonly poor oral hygiene is linked to disease of the teeth and gums. This may come along in the form of dental cavities, abscesses or gum disease. In order to avoid developing oral health problems, it is essential that you follow a few key steps.

Daily Oral Health Care

One of the most effective ways to maintain good oral health is by following a good dental hygiene routine daily.

This should include:

Brushing your teeth for around two minutes after every meal
Flossing your teeth at least once a day to remove the food particles that become stuck there
Using a mouth rinse to flush away the left over bacteria, plaque and food particles.

As well as following this routine, you should pay particular attention to the products that you are using.

Most dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush with oscillating head as they are able to remove plaque and bacteria more efficiently. If you use a manual toothbrush, then be sure to choose one that has soft bristles. Hard bristles can damage sensitive gum tissue.

Dental tape is often preferred to dental floss, since the tape is a bit wider and tends to be gentler on the gums. The technique that you use is also important. Instead of pulling the floss from side to side along the gum tissue, you should shimmy it up and down along the surface of the tooth.

When choosing mouthwash, always select products that are alcohol free. Alcohol is an antiseptic, which is why it is often included oral mouth rinses, but it can affect the natural protection offered by your saliva and lead to bacteria breeding in your mouth more easily.

Always avoid products that contain sodium lauryl sulphate. This is a chemical compound that is used in many cleaning, hygiene and beauty products as a foaming agent. However, it can also cause damage to your teeth and gums and has been linked to making certain people more susceptible to oral health problems.

Advantages of Natural Dental Products

Many commercial dental health products available at your supermarket or pharmacy contain chemicals that can actually damage your teeth or gums. Instead of using such products many people are now opting to use natural products to maintain their oral health.

Botanical oils that include spearmint, peppermint, and almond can be quite effective in killing and controlling bacteria. It does not contain harmful chemicals such as sodium lauryl sulphate or alcohol.

Natural ingredients are preferred since it is hard to gauge the long-term risks of synthetic products. Natural ingredients are able to eradicate bacteria and plaque and leave your mouth feeling clean and fresh.

Overall Dental Care Practices

As well as brushing, flossing and rinsing daily, there are certain practices that you can incorporate in order to enjoy better dental health and overall well-being:

Dentist visits – you should visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and overall clean. They will remove plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, which can cause disease and decay. They can also spot the early warning signs of oral health conditions before you are likely to notice them.
Diet – try to cut down on processed foods and those that are high in sugar. Processed foods contain limited nutrition for your body. Therefore if you are eating many processed foods in place of fresh foods, then you will not receive all the vitamins and minerals that are needed for a healthy body. The bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities also feed on sugars, so reducing your sugar intake is also very important.
Stress – stress places a lot of pressure on your body systems, particularly your immune system. When you experience high levels of stress, you are much more likely to develop gum disease and other health conditions. Finding effective ways to deal with and dissipate the stress in your life will result in elevated health and well-being.
Smoking – smoking is very damaging to your oral health. It encourages bacterial growth, which leads to plaque and tartar taking hold of the teeth and gums and infection of the gum tissue. Smoking also limits your circulation, which affects the removal of toxins from your system. This means that when you do develop infections in your gum tissue, or elsewhere in your body, your body is less able to fight them off. The risks of smoking are not worth any perceived gain, socially or physically.

Poor oral hygiene has been directly linked to poor health of the teeth and gums. However, not looking after your oral health has also been linked to other health conditions. Some studies have shown a connection between poor oral health and heart disease.

As yet, it is not clear whether there is a direct causal effect or whether it is coincidental. It may be that the bacteria that cause plaque on the teeth and gums, may also damage your heart health. It is also possible that there is a coincidental effect – as in, those people who do not look after their teeth and gums may also neglect other areas of their health too.

Studies into the connection between oral hygiene and disease are on-going. While there may not yet be concrete proof of poor overall health and dental hygiene, it certainly pays to look after your teeth and gums. When you enjoy good oral health, you have a great smile, improved self-confidence and a better sense of well-being.

Find out more about how reduce your exposure to chronic disease by means of a natural oral care solution. Click below in order to discover a successful steps to a healthier you, with a smile!

How to Floss Properly

Flossing is an essential step in your home oral health routine because brushing alone is not enough to remove all bacteria and plaque. When you floss, you remove food particles, plaque and bacteria that get stuck between your teeth each time you eat. Knowing how to floss properly means you can remove the maximum amount of bacteria each time leading to healthier teeth and gums.

What happens when food gets stuck between teeth?

If the bacteria and plaque are not removed regularly between your teeth and in hard to reach places, then you could develop a whole range of oral health problems. Some of these include:

Halitosis – bad breath
Tooth decay
Cavities
Gingivitis
Periodontal disease
Tooth loss
Abscesses

When food particles get stuck between your teeth, they release toxins, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. The food particles also produce lots of bacteria, which could cause infection. When the bacteria mix with your saliva, this chemical reaction produces plaque. This is a sticky, yellowish substance which can also cause tooth decay or gum disease.

Infection caused by poor oral hygiene is actually far more common than you probably realize. In fact, it affects up to 90 per cent of the adult population. However, you need not become the victim of oral infections. To prevent it from occurring, you merely have to follow a consistent and effective oral health routine at home.

Flossing is a key part of an effective home dental hygiene routine and should be done daily. As well as going through the motions, it is necessary that you floss properly employing the right technique and using the best available products.

Using the correct flossing technique

So you might be thinking that flossing correctly is just about slipping the floss between your teeth and shifting it back and forth a couple of time before moving onto the next space between the pearly whites. If you want to apply the correct flossing technique to get rid of as much “gunk” as you can in each session, then there are a few tips to be aware of:

Start by taking a piece of floss that is 20-30 centimetres long and wind one end of the floss around your index finger and grasp it with your thumb.
Leave about five centimetres from your index finger and wind the floss around the other index finger.
Start at the back molars of the upper teeth and gently guide the floss into place between the teeth with a zigzagging type action.
Pull the floss forwards with your index fingers so that the floss forms a “c” shape around the tooth.
Gently move the floss up and down against the tooth several times.
Once you have finished with one tooth, rewind the floss around your fingers so that a clean section of floss is ready to be used.
Continue working the upper teeth from back to front and then do the same with the lower teeth.

Best way to floss around dental work

If you have braces or other dental work, then you need to be a little bit careful about your flossing technique. With care and the right method, you will not get floss stuck between braces, on wires or potentially dislodge bridges or prosthetics.

Some people with braces think that you can’t floss, but you can. In fact, people with dental work need to floss even more than others since it is more likely that you will have food stuck in and around your teeth.

Be patient – flossing with dental work will take longer than for other people.
Use waxed floss – you may even be able to find floss that is specially designed for people with dental work.
Thread the floss under the wire in between teeth and then move it gently up and down around the tooth.
Select a clean piece of floss and move onto the next tooth.

Knowing how to floss properly is essential as using the wrong technique can actually damage the sensitive gum tissue. By following this step of your dental routine once a day and then rinsing with mouthwash (without harsh chemicals!), you are ensuring that the chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease are much reduced. In additional to proper flossing, it is vital to know how to brush your teeth properly.