The importance of good oral health is a major concern for the average American. Good oral health involves the removal of plaque from the teeth and the gingiva to prevent tooth decay and gingivitis.

Plaque is a sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that is constantly forming on the teeth. The saliva, food and bacteria combines to form these deposits that collect on the teeth and at the gumline (where the teeth and the gums meet). Clinically, this plaque is the "white stuff" that forms at the gumline. If left there, the plaque can irritate the gums and cause inflammation of the gums, and this is called "gingivitis".

Plaque can easily be removed mechanically, i.e. tooth brushing; it will not be removed with rinsing. Only large debris in the mouth can be rinsed off. Therefore good oral hygiene includes brushing and flossing to remove the plaque from all the surfaces of the teeth.

Gingivitis is a mild inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Gums may appear red, swollen and may bleed easily. At this stage, gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene. If left untreated the gum infection can damage the bone and supporting tissues. The gums will separate from the tooth and the bone level will deteriorate. Sometimes the teeth can become loose and fall out or they may have to be removed. When this happens this is called "Periodontitis" or "Periodontal disease."

Tartar (also called calculus) is harden plaque that cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing. This crusty deposit adheres to the teeth and can only be removed by a dentist. Tartar formation may also make it difficult to remove new plaque and bacteria.

With proper brushing and flossing you will remove the plaque and prevent formation of tartar buildup.

Proper technique includes placing the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gumline, using circular motion and brushing 2-3 teeth at a time. You want to brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, the chewing surfaces, and your tongue as well. This should take about 2 minutes to perform. You want to brush your teeth at least 2 time a day, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a ADA (American Dental Association) accepted fluoride toothpaste.

Flossing daily will remove the plaque and food particles between your teeth that the toothbrush cannot accomplish. Flossing will also prevent cavities between your teeth.

Wrap an 18-inch strand around your middle fingers, use the thumb and forefinger to guide an inch of floss between the teeth. Curve the floss around the tooth at the gumline, then move the floss up and down. Using a clean segment of floss, repeat this method on the rest of the teeth. Remember to floss the back side of the last tooth. Flossing should be done once a day, preferably before bedtime.

The importance of brushing and flossing cannot be over-emphasized enough. Good oral hygiene can easily be achieved with minimum time consumed and will prevent a series of oral diseases.

It is recommended by the ADA that you see your dentist at least once every 6 months for routine dental care. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health consult your local dental professionals.