When it comes to maintaining healthy gums and preventing periodontal disease (gum disease), two of the most effective ways to disrupt harmful bacteria and remove food debris are brushing and oral irrigation. While flossing also plays a role, oral irrigation has proven to be more effective in the long-term management and maintenance of gum health. In this blog, we’ll explore why brushing and oral irrigation are essential for keeping your gums healthy and your smile bright.
Why Plaque Removal is Crucial for Gum Health
Plaque is a sticky film made up of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that forms on your teeth and gums. If plaque isn’t removed regularly, the bacteria in it convert food particles into acids that can cause tooth decay. As plaque hardens, it turns into calculus (or tartar), which can irritate the gums and make it even harder to remove plaque effectively. If left untreated, this bacteria buildup leads to gum disease by triggering an immune response in the body that can pull the ligaments that attach your teeth to your gums, leading to pocketing. Over time, more aggressive infections can lead to bone loss, and in severe cases, your teeth may become loose and even fall out.
This highlights the importance of removing bacteria from your mouth regularly to prevent gum disease from progressing.
Brushing: The Foundation of Good Oral Hygiene
Proper brushing is the first step in keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Here’s how to brush effectively:
Brush at least twice a day, especially before bed, using an ADA-approved soft-bristle toothbrush and toothpaste.
Use a 45-degree angle to brush along the gum line, applying a gentle circular motion. Always make sure the bristles are in contact with the gums.
Don’t forget to clean the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of your teeth, as well as the inside front teeth using the tip of the brush.
Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
For more efficient cleaning, we recommend an electric toothbrush like the Sonicare. Electric toothbrushes, especially the Sonicare, are better at disrupting plaque than manual brushes. When using a Sonicare:
Angle the brush at a 45-degree angle where the teeth meet the gums, applying just enough pressure to splay the bristles between your teeth.
Roll the brush toward the chewing surface of your teeth and make sure to clean all surfaces: cheeks, tongue, and the chewing areas.
Concentrate on brushing two teeth at a time and try to follow a consistent pattern each time to ensure thorough coverage.
Oral Irrigation: The Best Tool for Maintaining Gum Health
When it comes to managing and preventing periodontal disease, oral irrigation is highly effective. Oral irrigators help disrupt the biofilm—the sticky film of bacteria—that forms on your gums and teeth. This is especially important for people dealing with gum disease, as irrigating regularly can help keep bacteria at bay and promote overall gum health. Here’s how to properly use an oral irrigator:
Daily irrigation is recommended for maintenance. Start by filling the tank with warm water and begin on low power.
Place the tip between your teeth and hold it there for a quick four-count. Make sure to irrigate the cheek and tongue side of the teeth, and don’t forget to clean behind the last tooth.
As you irrigate, lean over the sink to spit out the water.
Gradually increase the power of the irrigator for more thorough cleaning. If needed, we can provide an antimicrobial solution during your visit to better target gum disease.
Oral irrigation is especially important because it reaches areas that brushing and flossing alone can’t—such as beneath the gumline—making it one of the most effective methods for managing periodontal disease.
Flossing: An Option, But Not the Most Effective for Periodontal Health
Flossing is still an important part of your oral hygiene routine, especially for removing food debris from between your teeth. However, when it comes to managing gum disease and maintaining optimal gum health, oral irrigation is the superior method. You’re welcome to use both if you’d like, but oral irrigation offers more consistent results in preventing plaque buildup and disrupting harmful bacteria.
If you choose to floss, here’s how to do it properly:
Take 12-16 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches of floss between your hands.
Using your thumbs and forefingers, gently guide the floss between your teeth with a sawing motion.
Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth and gently move it up and down under the gumline to clean the side of each tooth.
If you find traditional floss difficult to use, try floss holders to make the process easier.
Rinsing: A Good Backup, But Not a Substitute for Brushing or Irrigation
Rinsing can be helpful if you’re unable to brush after meals, as it can help remove food debris and freshen your breath. However, most over-the-counter mouthwashes aren’t necessary for maintaining gum health. If you’re considering a mouth rinse, consult with your dentist or dental hygienist to ensure it’s appropriate for your needs. We’ll discuss your options during your visit.
Take Charge of Your Gum Health
At Dr. Parrella’s office, we recommend brushing, oral irrigation, and proper flossing as part of a daily routine to keep your gums healthy and avoid gum disease. Regular checkups with us will help monitor your gum health and allow us to make personalized recommendations tailored to your needs.
Don’t wait for gum disease to progress—take action now for a healthier smile and better overall health!
Contact us at (973) 625-8585 or visit www.drparrella.com to schedule your appointment today.