Dental Hygiene

What oral hygiene technique is recommended for adults?

Dental brushing:

• • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and make sure to replace it every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles are worn.
• • Apply an adequate amount of fluoride toothpaste to the brush.
• • Place the brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line.
• • Make vibrating movements from front to back and short, gentle sweeping strokes from top to bottom for upper teeth and bottom to top for lower teeth, so unlike children you should open your mouth wide, brushing both the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth.
• • Make sure to also brush the chewing surface of the teeth.
• • Don't forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
• • Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bed. Ideally three times a day, after each meal.

Use of dental floss:

• • Cut approximately 45 cm of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving a space of about 5 cm between them.
• • Gently slide the dental floss between your teeth, making sawing movements and making sure to reach the gum line.
• • Curve the dental floss around each tooth and move the floss up and down to remove plaque and food debris.
• • Use a clean section of dental floss for each interdental space.
• • Perform this dental floss technique at least once a day, preferably before bed.

In addition to brushing and using dental floss, other complementary techniques can be considered, such as rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash recommended by your dentist, using interdental brushes to clean wider spaces between teeth, and regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings and oral health evaluations. Remember that it is important to consult with your dentist for specific recommendations according to your individual dental needs.

How should children brush their teeth?

Brushing children's teeth properly is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene from an early age. Below are some tips on how to brush children's teeth:

• Choose the right toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush of appropriate size for the child's mouth. There are toothbrushes designed specifically for children, with attractive colors and designs that can make brushing more fun.
• Use fluoride toothpaste: From 2 years of age, it is recommended to use fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to use an adequate amount of toothpaste, the size of a pea, to prevent the child from swallowing too much.
• Teach the proper technique: Show your child how to brush their teeth correctly. Place the brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line and make gentle, circular movements on each tooth, both on the outer and inner surfaces. Make sure to also brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
• Supervise brushing: It is important to supervise children's brushing until they have enough dexterity to do it correctly on their own, usually around 6-8 years of age. Make sure they are brushing for at least two minutes, twice a day.
• Make brushing a fun time: You can make brushing a fun and enjoyable time for your child. You can use songs, games, or brush your teeth together as part of the daily routine.
• Establish good oral hygiene habits: In addition to brushing, teach your child the importance of using dental floss and doing appropriate mouthwashes when appropriate according to their age. Encourage good oral hygiene habits and make sure to schedule regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings.

Remember that each child is different, so it is important to adapt the approach according to their needs and level of development. Also, don't hesitate to consult with a pediatric dentist for specific and personalized recommendations for your child.

How should mouth cleaning be done in babies?

Cleaning the mouth in babies is important for maintaining good oral health and establishing oral hygiene habits from an early age. Here are some tips on how to clean a baby's mouth:

From birth:

Clean the baby's gums even before teeth appear. You can use gauze or a soft, damp cloth to gently rub the gums after each feeding.

When the first teeth appear:

• • From the appearance of the first tooth, begin to gently brush the baby's teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush with small bristles.
• • Use clean water to brush the baby's teeth. It is not necessary to use fluoride toothpaste until the child is about 2 years old, unless recommended by the dentist.

Proper brushing:

• • Place the baby on your lap or in a comfortable position that allows you to easily access their mouth.
• • With the toothbrush, gently brush the baby's teeth in gentle, circular movements. Make sure to brush both the front and back of the teeth.
• • Pay special attention to areas where teeth meet the gums, as plaque tends to accumulate there.
• • As the back teeth erupt, you may need to use a toothbrush with a smaller head or a toothbrush designed for babies.

Establish a routine:

• • Create a daily tooth brushing routine for the baby, for example, after breakfast and before bed.
• • As the baby grows, allow them to participate in brushing, holding the brush or trying to brush their teeth under your supervision.

In addition to brushing, it is important to avoid using bottles or pacifiers with sugary liquids or milk during the night, as this can contribute to the appearance of cavities in baby teeth.

Remember to schedule the baby's first dental visit around the first year of age or when the first tooth appears. The dentist will be able to evaluate the baby's oral health and provide additional recommendations on mouth cleaning and dental care at this early stage. It is important to note that the tips provided are general and it is advisable to consult with a pediatric dentist for specific recommendations adapted to your baby's individual needs.