Oral Hygiene
& CrossFit
Dental plaque
is a sticky, soft and colourless film of
bacteria that constantly builds up on the surfaces of teeth and
gums.
Not removing tooth
plaque bacteria from the mouth regularly, can lead to
(caries) tooth decay and dental cavities or gum problems (such
as gingivitis and periodontitis).
Tooth Brushing
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-tufted brush.
The head of the brush should be small enough to get into all the
areas of the mouth. Spend at least two minutes brushing,
covering all areas (inside, outside, and biting areas of each
tooth). Pay particular attention to where the teeth meet the
gums. Get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months. Many people find
that an electric toothbrush does a better job and so they have
become popular. It is usually advised that you should use a
toothpaste that contains fluoride. (The fluoride helps to
prevent tooth decay.)
Toothbrushing alone
"will only clean 60% of your tooth"
hence the need for interdental cleaning aids
Flossing
Floss your teeth at least once a day after brushing (Some people
who have not flossed before are surprised as to how much extra
debris can be removed by flossing in addition to brushing.) If
you are not sure how to floss, then ask your dentist or dental
hygienist. Briefly: the 'usual' floss looks a bit like cotton
thread. Cut off about 40cm. Wind the ends round your middle
fingers of each hand. Then grab the floss between the thumbs and
first finger to obtain a tight 3-4 cm section which you can pull
between teeth. Gently scrape the floss against the sides of each
tooth from the gum downwards. This will clean the narrow spaces
between the teeth which toothbrushes cannot get to.
Interdental Brushes
Effective cleaning with your interdental brush:
1. Slide the brush at right angles very gently between your
teeth. If it does not glide easily, work it in gently or choose
a smaller size.
2. Move the brush full length back and forth until the
interdental area is clean. If the brush is angled, first at one
side and then at the other, it will clean larger surfaces.
3. Cleaning between your back teeth will be easier if you curve
the wire so that it can be moved in at right angles. Once
curved, do not straighten or curve at another angle to
avoid damage to the brush.
Mouthwashes
These can be used as an adjunct to
the above. Some contain antibacterial agents and fluoride and
can help prevent dental caries and periodontal disease.
Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."