Stop Flossing!

Cats hate it too.

Aren't you tired of getting the dreaded "floss lecture"?  I'm sure tired of giving it, so I don't do that any longer!  Stop feeling guilty if you don't floss.  To floss properly is actually really hard and takes a lot of dexterity.  I've watched dental professional floss incorrectly!  If you are a dedicated flosser- good for you. You are in the minority, but super job, continue on.  If you are not a flosser, it's okay. I know, I know, "Wow, a dental hygienist really just said it's okay not to floss."  But since my goal is to help you be healthy, and, since gum disease and tooth decay start in-between the teeth, let's use other tools to clean there.  Tools that are much easier to use!  And, the best part? All in the same time frame you now spend just to brush your teeth.

Alternative Teeth-Cleaning Routine:

#1. Xylitol is a good sugar and really is a little bit magical.  It reduces the plaque build-up on your teeth by 50%!  (Some folks can't even do that with a tooth brush.)  Strive for five servings sprinkled in your mouth throughout the day.  It tastes great, and is safe for diabetics.  Check out my blog post and get some xylitol for everyone in the family, everyday! Start sprinkling!

#2. Clean in-between your teeth. As mentioned earlier, that's where dental disease starts.  Pick one of these and go in-between daily!  (I actually use them twice a day, it's so easy...)
           - Soft Picks
           - TePe Brushes
           - Dr. Collins Interproximal Brushes
           - Piksters

 #3. Water irrigation  Waterpik is the most familiar brand. Warm water in the tank with a dilute solution of bleach (one part bleach to 25 parts water) will help kill the bacteria under crowns, fillings, in-between, and under the gumline.  Use the bleach water three times a week. Your mouth will be so clean! There are other solutions you can use if you prefer- just ask me!

#4. The 30 Second Smile Toothbrush - my fav!  This electric tooth brush basically does it for you, and in 30 seconds.  Use with the tooth paste of your choice, a xylitol paste, or one recommended by your dental office. More on toothpaste in future blogs.

#5. Scrape and clean your tongue, see my previous post on Tongue Talking for  a review on that.

#6. Finish up with a 30 second swish with CloSYS mouth rinse.  CloSYS is a chlorine dioxide mouth rinse that helps kill decay and gum disease bacteria.



Easy, efficient and all in the same time frame it used to take you to just brush your teeth.  It'll make your dental hygienist smile when you come in for your next appointment.  No bleeding, no disease and the best part, no more floss lectures.  You are on your way to a healthy mouth.

Big Smiles for a healthy mouth,
Barbara