Choosing the Right Toothbrush for You

Choosing the right toothbrush could mean the difference between enjoying your nighttime routine or not. At Bensalem Family Dentistry, we know that every patient in our Bensalem, PA dentistry is different. That is why we want to give guidelines for picking out the right toothbrush for you.

Let’s start with the grip. Grip is important for being able to maneuver the toothbrush around your mouth. Thicker toothbrushes and especially ones with non-slip grips are best. Next, the size of your toothbrush’s head is also very important. You want to pick a smaller one so that you can fit it around your whole mouth. Bigger toothbrush heads make it difficult to reach every surface of your teeth.

Studies have shown that manual toothbrushes do just as good of a brushing job as electric ones do, however, for those who have difficulty using their hands, an electric toothbrush may help them get a better cleaning. For instance, those with arthritis who cannot twist and grip as easily anymore may not be able to scrub their teeth the best. An electric toothbrush basically does all the work. You just need to hold it in position. In addition, electric toothbrushes often have timers.

For kids, there are a ton of toothbrushes that have their favorite cartoon character on them. There are also ones that play music. These functions get kids excited about brushing their teeth.

If you have any questions about dental supplies, make sure to ask! To schedule an appointment with Bensalem Family Dentistry in our Bensalem, PA office, call us at (215) 638-9952. For more information, visit our website, www.bensalemfamilydentistry.com. 

Gum Disease and Its Stages

Gum disease can be detrimental to oral and overall health. While it should be taken seriously, gum disease is completely avoidable. Bensalem Family Dentistry of Bensalem, PA wants their patients to know about the stages of gum disease and why it is important to keep it away.

Gum disease has two primary stages; gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage. This is characterized by red, irritated gums that can be puffy and can sometimes bleed easily. Gingivitis is often cured simply by having a great dental cleaning and then continuing great oral care at home. If left untreated, however, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis. Periodontitis is a much more serious stage of gum disease. Periodontitis can create bleeding, red or purple, painful gums. They can begin to recede and create loose teeth. In addition, periodontitis can create chronic bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth, and pus in between the teeth and gums. Periodontitis is treated with scaling and planing, cleanings, and possibly gum surgery. Often, the receded gums will need to be fixed so that additional bacteria cannot reach between the gums and the teeth. Without treatment, periodontitis will result in lost teeth and a spread of infection. Periodontitis also increases the risks of heart attack and stroke.

In order to keep your gums healthy, brush twice daily and floss once daily. In addition, schedule your routine visits to your dentist for a cleaning and examination. To schedule your next appointment at Bensalem Family Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, call us at (215) 638-9952. For more information about us, visit our website, www.bensalemfamilydentistry.com. 

Brushing and Flossing with Braces

Brushing and flossing are essential for a healthy mouth. When wearing braces, brushing and flossing can be a little more complicated, but it is still very important. At Bensalem Family Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, we want our patients to be aware of how to brush and floss while wearing braces. Following these steps will ensure you have a healthy and stain-free smile when your braces come off!

To begin brushing, brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth and the insides as you normally would. Next, brush along the tops and bottoms of all of the brackets. Plaque can build up around the brackets which can lead to strange stains and more cavities.  Make sure you are also still hitting your gum line, but do so gently. The next step is to take an interdental cleaner and scrub the sides of your brackets. This little, tree-like brush is able to get beneath the wire; so no spots are missed!

To floss, you will find that it is easiest if you use a floss threader. There are flexible, usually plastic tools that basically work like a needle and thread. They help you get the floss under your wires and back out more quickly. Floss threaders are usually found where most dental supplies are sold.

In addition to keeping your teeth clean at home, coming in for your professional dental cleanings is just as important. To schedule your appointment with Bensalem Family Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, call our office at (215) 638-9952. For more information, visit our website, www.bensalemfamilydentistry.com.