Healthy news and information from Exquisite Smiles / 2021 August Issue
They can affect your weight, mood, and even your skin. But your smile? Yes, that too. Hormones play a pivotal role in our everyday health, and that’s especially true for pregnant women.
During pregnancy, hormones are in hyper drive. So much so that some women develop pregnancy gingivitis, which is typically a mild form of gum disease that leaves the gums tender, sore and red.
Some women may notice bleeding gums when brushing or flossing. Pregnancy gingivitis is most common during the second and third trimesters.
The best way to combat oral health problems while pregnant is to visit us as soon as you suspect a problem. We’ll help you monitor any oral health changes and suggest the best course forward. Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant soon? Give us a call to make sure your oral health is in tip top shape.
Flossing once every day is important. But even more important than that is knowing how to floss correctly so that your mouth and teeth can benefit from your care.
Follow this step by step guide the next time you floss to make sure you’re doing so flawlessly.
Step 1: Start with breaking off about 18 inches of floss. Wrap the ends around each of your middle or index fingers.
Step 2: Pinch your thumbs against your forefingers to hold the floss securely.
Step 3: Gently guide the floss between your teeth. Never be too aggressive.
Step 4: Against your gum line, gently slide the floss between your tooth and gum.
Step 5: Tightly hold the floss against each tooth. Rub the sides of each tooth away from the gum to get rid of debris and plaque.
Step 6: When complete, toss your floss. While we love recycling, it’s best to use a new piece of floss every day.
Sure, your toothbrush is your number one sidekick for beating plaque, bad breath and stopping bacteria in its tracks. But did you know that the toothbrush is over 5,000 years old? Or that the first modern toothbrush was invented in the 1700’s?
Here are a few more fun oral health facts to read and enjoy!
• Your toothbrush loves to breathe—so don’t keep it covered in a plastic container—especially when it’s wet. This serves as a breeding ground for bacteria.
• The lifespan of your toothbrush is roughly three to four months. Don’t feel like buying a new brush that often? Stock up on a few once every year to cut back on trips to the store.
• For most people, a soft bristled brush is best. Toothbrushes that are too hard can irritate your teeth and gums, and may even cause bleeding.
• You shouldn’t share or borrow a toothbrush. When doing so, you’ll also be sharing germs and bacteria.
