Oral Hygiene Guide: Best Practices for Healthy Teeth & Gums | Shahad Thomas Dental

Why Good Oral Health Matters in Mississauga

At Shahad Thomas Dental, we believe a healthy smile is the foundation of overall wellness. Poor oral hygiene doesn’t just cause cavities – it’s linked to serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Our Mississauga dental team shares expert tips to protect both your smile and your body.

Essential Daily Oral Care Routine

Brushing: Your First Defense

Brush twice daily for 2 minutes each session
Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel
Replace toothbrush every 3 months (or after illness)
Choose a soft-bristled brush to protect gums

Pro Tip: Electric toothbrushes remove 21% more plaque than manual brushing (Journal of Clinical Periodontology)

Flossing: The Step You Can’t Skip

Floss once daily to prevent gum disease
Use 18-inch strands for proper technique
Try alternatives if traditional floss is difficult:

Water flossers
Interdental brushes
Floss picks

Mouthwash: The Final Touch

Use therapeutic mouthwash (not just cosmetic)
Look for ADA-approved formulas
Swish for 30 seconds after brushing

Proper Brushing Technique in 3 Steps

Angle & Circles
- Position brush at 45° to gums
- Use gentle circles on all surfaces
Clean All Surfaces
- Outer, inner, and chewing surfaces
- Don’t forget back teeth
Tongue Care
- Gently brush tongue to remove bacteria
- Improves breath freshness

Correct Flossing Method

Measure 18 inches of floss
Form C-shape around each tooth
Slide gently below gumline
Use clean sections for each tooth

Did You Know? Flossing reduces gum disease risk by 40% (American Dental Association)

Professional Care Matters

Even with perfect home care, professional cleanings:

Remove tartar buildup (impossible at home)
Detect problems early
Prevent gum disease progression

We recommend:
Bi-annual cleanings for most patients
Personalized schedules for special needs

The Oral-Systemic Health Connection

Your mouth health affects your entire body:
Heart Disease – Gum inflammation increases cardiac risks
Diabetes – Periodontal disease makes blood sugar harder to control
Pregnancy – Poor oral health linked to preterm birth