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dental care

Can You Benefits Using a Water Floss

We understand that some people may neglect the very critical step of flossing their teeth because of the tedious nature of using dental floss. Sorry to say, but flossing is a MUST for maintaining your oral health, overall health and preventing gum disease. If traditional dental floss isn’t your thing, don’t worry, we may have just the perfect alternative for you! Have you heard of water flossing?

water flossingA water floss or water pik works by directly pulsating high pressure water from the tip of the floss to your gum line and in between your teeth. Water flossers are actually reported to be 52% better at reducing gingivitis than traditional flossing. It’s the high pressure along with the pulsating of the water that makes water flossing super effective and efficient at releasing plaque and food particles from in between gums and teeth.

 Can you benefit from water flossing?

  • If you have braces, water flossing can remove food and bacteria around braces that string floss can’t reach.
  • If you have poor hand dexterity, water flossing is much easier to control than using string floss.
  • If you have spaces in between your teeth, a receding gum line or uneven teeth, string floss may not be super effective to get in all areas of the teeth. Water flossing may be a better alternative.

At our dental office in Woodbridge, ON, we have water flossers at our office. If you’re interested and think you can benefit from using a water flosser, we can show you how to properly use one.

Give Pine Seven Dental Centre a call today to book your next dental checkup!

Caring For Your Teeth As You Age

For many people, staying healthy with age takes hard work and dedication. Just like the rest of your body, maintaining your oral health will also require extra care to prevent issues.

Risk factors common to ageing that can negatively affect your oral health

Xerostomia– Also known as dry mouth, this condition is common among older adults. Many medications can cause dry mouth, and the risk increases when taking multiple drugs. Having dry mouth dramatically increases your risk of cavities.

Reduced dexterity– This can be an issue for anyone who has suffered from a stroke, a bad fall, arthritis, or has a neurodegenerative disease such as Parkinson’s. The ability to grasp a toothbrush and maneuver floss decreases.

Diabetes-​ Those over the age of 65 make up the most significant percentage of Canadians living with diabetes. Since diabetes affects your body’s healing and immunity, those suffering from this condition are more prone to gum disease. However, if you have uncontrolled gum disease, your blood sugars will be more difficult to control, and if you have uncontrolled blood sugars, your oral health will suffer.

Increased cavity risk– Many factors will increase your risk of cavities as you age. Dry mouth, gum recession, reduced dexterity and softer foods in your diet are all risk factors.

Choosing the right dental products:

Electric toothbrush– This is a helpful tool for those with dexterity issues, or for caregivers that assist with brushing.

electric toothbrush parkinsons disease

Interdental brushes– If flossing is not possible, these can be used to clean between your teeth and are very effective at cleaning out larger spaces if there is a loss of gum tissue.

Dry mouth products– Products such as Biotene can moisturize the oral tissues, reducing the discomfort caused by dry mouth while helping to prevent cavities.

Fluoridated products– Dental products containing fluoride help to prevent dental cavities. There is toothpaste available with higher concentrations of fluoride for those who are at high risk of cavities. However, you should speak to your dental professional to see what would work best for you.

Denture care– Many older adults, have partial or full dentures that need to be cleaned daily. Brush your dentures with a mild soap and a denture brush. Avoid using toothpaste as it is too abrasive and can scratch your dentures. Soaking your dentures in Polident will kill any harmful bacteria growing on them. Try not to leave your dentures in all the time or your tissues underneath will get red and irritated. If possible, leave your dentures out overnight to let your oral tissues breathe.

Speak to your dental professional to come up with an individualized home care plan that will suit your lifestyle and your oral health needs. You may also need to have more frequent professional cleanings to maintain your oral health.

If you are concerned about maintaining your oral health, call us today!

Book your appointment now, because it starts with a smile!
Call us today at (905) 856-2535