Caring for Your Teeth:
Essential Oral Health Care
Why is it that we brush, floss and rinse? Brushing, flossing, and rinsing are all working toward the ultimate goal of decreasing the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Brushing reduces bacteria from the surfaces of the teeth, cheeks and tongue. Floss removes bacteria from under the gums and between the teeth. Bacteria colonizes in these areas so flossing is significant in the process of cleaning your teeth. Rinsing (Listerine) actually kills bacteria in any area it reaches, so it makes the perfect brush and floss follow-up. Bacteria are useful throughout the body, but there are bacteria that cause harm. Bacteria cause harm by living, colonizing (having off-spring and building communities) and by forming acids (going potty). 
Floss at least once per day. Notice this is my first instruction in oral healthcare. Using floss is your best weapon to remove harmful bacteria from under the gums. Your toothbrush will simply not get as far under the gums as is necessary to remove bacteria. Bacteria that live under the gums are usually the most harmful.
Brush at least twice per day. Ideally, you would brush your teeth morning and night and after every meal. Realistically, you should have a goal of
brushing (for 2 minutes) at least twice per day. Attention should be paid to parts of the mouth other than the teeth, specifically the tongue. The tongue can harbor a tremendous amount of bacteria which necessitates thorough cleaning. Oftentimes, the tongue can be the source of bad breath.
Rinse at least once daily for at least 30 seconds. More ideally, you should rinse twice per day for at least 30 seconds. Though I am more partial toward Listerine rinse, another great rinse is Crest Prohealth (alcohol free). Either rinse is very effective at killing bacteria. However, mouthwashes or breath fresheners do not have the same ability to clean.
Fluoride as needed. Many people receive all the fluoride they need from water supplies, food and toothpaste. However, if deficient or at high risk for cavities, additional fluoride should be used. Depending on the advise of your dental professional, you may use an over-the-counter fluoride rinse or an office-dispensed fluoride product. As well, there are prescription toothpastes and gels available, if needed.
See your dentist regularly. The mouth is similar to a car in that if you catch things early, they cause the least problem and least expense. The advice to see the dentist twice a year is no ploy to get your money, it will save your teeth. Seriously. Not to mention that if you have dental insurance, you are putting money into your insurance company's pocket if you don't go.
Cassandra Minor, RDH, BSDH
August 23, 2011