Oral Hygiene Tips | Brookmere Dental Group

Essential Oral Health Tips for Every Age

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

A bright smile is more than just a sign of confidence—it reflects your overall health. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps protect against cavities, gum problems and other dental problems that affect overall health. Over time, factors like diet, lifestyle choices and aging can affect the condition of your teeth and gums.

With the right approach and these oral health tips you can maintain a healthy mouth at any stage of life. From proper brushing techniques to dietary choices, taking care of your teeth requires consistency.

Neglecting oral health doesn’t just lead to toothaches and bad breath; it can contribute to more serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes. To ensure a long-lasting, radiant smile, it’s essential to follow these oral health tips and visit your dentist regularly for preventive care.

Tooth Decay and How Can You Prevent It?

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems. It starts when bacteria in the mouth release acids that weaken and wear down the enamel. The breakdown of this protective layer can lead to cavities, tooth sensitivity and even infections if left untreated.

Fortunately, preventing decay is simple with a few daily habits. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and removes plaque, while flossing eliminates food particles that can lead to bacterial buildup. You can also drink fluoridated water, which supports enamel remineralization and strengthens teeth against decay. Visiting a dentist regularly allows for the early detection of cavities, ensuring timely treatment before the problem worsens.

How Oral Health Affects Overall Health

People don’t realize oral health is closely linked to their well-being. Studies indicate that gum disease has been related to a growing risk of systemic situations, including heart disease, diabetes and even cognitive decline.

Bacteria from the mouth can go to the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation. If you experience symptoms like swollen gums, persistent bad breath, or tooth sensitivity, it may indicate an underlying health issue.

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to severe dental complications, including tooth loss and infections. Caring for your teeth and gums enhances your smile and helps prevent severe medical conditions. You can invest in your overall health and quality of life by prioritizing oral health tips.

Oral Health

Keeping Your Gums Healthy

Gum health is just as crucial as maintaining strong teeth. Gum disease starts as mild gingivitis, causing redness and swelling, but if left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, leading to receding gums and bone loss. Daily brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup along the gumline. Taking foods rich in vitamin C and calcium supports healthy gums and reduces inflammation.

Avoiding smoking is also crucial, as tobacco products increase the risk of severe gum disease. If you notice these problems: bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, consult a dentist for professional cleaning and treatment options. A proactive approach to gum care ensures your teeth remain well-supported and infection-free.

The Right Way to Brush and Floss

Brushing and flossing might seem simple, but doing them correctly makes a significant difference in maintaining oral hygiene. Many people either rush through brushing or use improper techniques, which can leave plaque and bacteria behind. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, brushing in small circular motions and reaching all surfaces of the teeth ensures effective cleaning. Replacing your toothbrush every three months also prevents bacterial buildup.

Flossing is equally essential, as it removes plaque and food debris between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing before brushing is ideal, as it loosens particles, allowing the fluoride in toothpaste to reach deeper areas. Floss picks and water flossers offer convenient alternatives for those with dexterity issues. Mastering these fundamental techniques can reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease.

Common Dental Concerns and Solutions

Dentures: Proper Care for Long-Term Use

Proper maintenance is essential for individuals who wear dentures to ensure comfort and longevity. Cleaning dentures daily prevents bacteria buildup and staining, while soaking them overnight in a cleansing solution keeps them fresh. It’s also important to have dentures adjusted if they become loose to prevent irritation or sores on the gums. Regular dental visits help ensure that your dentures fit properly and function effectively.

Dry Mouth: Causes and Remedies

A dry mouth, or xerostomia, can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Medications, dehydration, or certain medical conditions often cause this condition. Drinking water frequently, chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help manage dry mouth. Dentists may recommend saliva substitutes or medications to increase moisture levels in severe cases.

Oral Cancer: Prevention and Early Detection

Oral cancer can also develop without any symptoms, making regular screenings essential. Heavy tobacco use and frequent alcohol consumption significantly elevate the risk, so limiting these habits can help prevent the disease. Protecting lips from sun exposure with SPF-infused lip balm and scheduling routine dental exams for early detection are also essential steps in prevention.

Take Charge of Your Oral Health

These oral health tips can prevent dental problems and maintain a healthy smile for years. Prioritizing daily hygiene, making wise dietary choices, and keeping in touch with your dentist regularly will keep your teeth and gums in top condition. A commitment to oral care enhances your smile and supports overall health, allowing you to enjoy a lifetime of confidence and well-being.

Common Questions

Q1. What are the signs of an unhealthy mouth?

Ans: Poor oral health symptoms include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, mouth sores, and changes in enamel texture. A dentist should evaluate any of these issues.

Q2. How can I eliminate bad breath?

Ans: Brushing and flossing daily, cleaning your tongue, staying hydrated, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and treating any underlying dental issues can help eliminate bad breath.

Q3. How can I strengthen my teeth?

Ans: Use fluoride toothpaste, consume a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, avoid acidic foods, and keep your teeth strong by getting regular dental checkups.

Q4. What foods promote gum health?

Ans: Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens support gum health, while dairy products and almonds strengthen teeth with calcium.

Q5. Which vitamins are best for teeth and gums?

Ans: Vitamin C helps maintain gum tissue, while vitamin D aids in calcium absorption, strengthening teeth.

Q6. How do I clean my tongue naturally?

Ans: A tongue scraper or gently brushing your tongue helps remove bacteria.

Q7. What kills bacteria in the mouth quickly?

Ans: Antibacterial mouthwash and diluted hydrogen peroxide can effectively reduce harmful bacteria.

Q8. What is the best way to maintain oral hygiene?

Ans: Brushing twice daily, flossing daily, drinking water, and seeing a dentist regularly ensures a healthy mouth.

Q9. What is the correct order for oral care?

Ans: Floss first, then brush and finish with mouthwash for optimal cleanliness.

Q10. What causes bad breath?

Ans: Lousy breath, food particles, dry mouth, or gum disease mainly cause plaque buildup.

Healthy Gums, Healthy You: Why Gum Health Matters More Than You Think

Wednesday, February 5th, 2025

When it comes to oral health, most people focus on their teeth. But what about your gums?

Gums play a crucial role in your smile and overall health. Maintaining healthy gums can reduce your risk of serious health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and even stroke.

In this blog post, lets break down why gum health matters, and how it connects to your overall wellness.

Why Gum Health Should Be a Priority

Your gums are the foundation for your teeth. They support and protect the roots and underlying bone. When gums become inflamed or infected, it can lead to gum disease (also known as periodontal disease), which starts off mild but can become severe if untreated.

Early gum disease, known as gingivitis, is reversible. However, advanced stages, such as periodontitis, can result in permanent damage to the bone and even tooth loss.

More importantly, gum disease has been linked to several systemic conditions—meaning what happens in your mouth can affect your entire body.

The Link Between Gum Health and Overall Health

1. Heart Disease

Numerous studies have shown a connection between gum disease and heart conditions. Inflammation caused by periodontal bacteria may contribute to blocked arteries, heart attacks, and strokes.

2. Diabetes

People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease, and vice versa. Poor gum health can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and high blood sugar can worsen gum infections.

3. Pregnancy Complications

Pregnant women with gum disease may be at higher risk for preterm birth and low birth weight. Maintaining oral hygiene during pregnancy is not only safe—it’s highly recommended.

How to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Gum disease is mostly preventable. With a few simple daily habits and regular dental checkups, you can keep your gums strong and healthy.

Brush Twice a Day – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line to remove plaque buildup gently. Don’t rush—spend at least two minutes brushing.
Floss Daily – Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline, where your toothbrush can’t reach. It’s one of the most powerful tools against gum disease.
Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash – A good mouthwash can reduce plaque and slow the progression of gingivitis. Look for products approved by dental associations like the ADA.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Regular checkups and cleanings help catch gum problems early. Your dentist can remove tartar (hardened plaque) and assess the health of your gums before issues become serious.
Quit Smoking – Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for gum disease. It weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your body to fight off gum infections.

Warning Signs of Gum Trouble

Not sure if your gums are healthy? Watch for these signs:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
Persistent bad breath
Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
Loose teeth or a change in bite

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away.

Quick Myth Busters About Gum Health

Myth 1: Bleeding gums are normal.

False! Gums should never bleed when you brush or floss. If they do, it could be an early sign of gum disease.

Myth 2: Gum disease only affects older adults.

Not true. Gum disease can start at any age, especially if oral hygiene is neglected.

Myth 3: If there’s no pain, there’s no problem.

Gum disease often develops painlessly, which is why regular dental visits are so important.

Final Thoughts: Healthy Gums, Healthier You

Taking care of your gums is more than just about keeping your teeth in place—it’s about protecting your entire body from preventable health issues. By brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly, you are doing more than improving your smile—you’re investing in your long-term health.

Want to know how your gums are doing? Book a dental checkup with our team today and take the first step toward a healthier you.

What Smoking Does to the Teeth: Visit a Dentist in Coquitlam Now

Wednesday, June 1st, 2022

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, it seemed that smoking was on the decline in Canada. British Columbia was no exception but unfortunately, this is a trend that now appears to be reversing. The latest figures show that at least 15% of the population here smokes.

There are many good reasons to visit a dentist in Coquitlam, but if you're a smoker then this is especially important to do on a regular basis. You're probably well aware of how smoking can affect your physical and mental health, but how does smoking affect your teeth?

That's what we're going to be discussing today. Read on to see if it might be time for you to schedule a dental check up in Coquitlam.

Smoking and Teeth Discoloration

Let's start off with something on the less serious side of things. Smoking is renowned for causing discoloration in teeth.

Your teeth are made out of enamel and this enamel has microscopic cracks on its exterior. Every time you smoke a cigarette the nicotine and tar contained inside settle into these cracks.

Over time this is guaranteed to cause discoloration. Usually, you'll notice a yellow or brown color developing.

If you have discolored teeth from smoking you will eventually have to address the root cause of the issue by kicking the habit. But in the meantime, you can try a teeth whitening treatment.

Risk of Gum Disease

If you're a smoker then you're automatically at risk of developing gum disease. This is because smokers have higher bacterial plaque production rates. Over time it's this plaque that can lead to gum disease, which often results in tooth loss.

What's worse is that because smoking restricts levels of oxygen in your bloodstream your infected gums have a harder time healing. It's for this same reason that smokers often have a more difficult time healing from dental surgeries and treatments.

Smoking and Oral Health

Of course, one of the more serious consequences of smoking is an increased risk of developing several different types of cancers. This includes oral cancer.

Did you know that smokers are 10 times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers? While dentists don't directly treat oral cancer, they are able to spot signs of it and are integral in relaying different treatment options to you and coordinating with other medical professionals.

Smoking Causes Bad Breath

Nobody likes that one person who always has bad breath—you definitely don't want to be that person either. But it's a fact that smokers are prone to chronic cases of halitosis. It's a condition called smoker's breath, and short of giving up smoking entirely, it can be very difficult to treat.

Why Smokers Should Visit a Dentist in Coquitlam Today

Everyone should visit their dentist on a regular basis, but if you're a smoker you should take extra special care of your oral health. If you'd like to visit a dentist in Coquitlam, we'd be happy to see you. Get in touch to book your appointment at your earliest convenience.

When Does Gum Disease Require a Deep Cleaning?

Friday, April 1st, 2022

According to the CDC, 47% of American adults over 30 struggle with gum disease. That number jumps to 70% of adults over age 65. It may be the most common diagnosis made at a dental checkup.

In its early stages, gum disease (gingivitis) makes gums swell with inflammation, which can hurt and cause bleeding. As it worsens, patients can lose their teeth. Most urgently, gum disease can expose patients to serious infections that damage the bones, lungs, and even the heart.

Fortunately, there are preventative measures and treatments—including deep cleaning. It's wise to talk to your local dentist in Coquitlam, BC, to learn what treatment options are right for you.

That said, there are some broad guidelines to explore if you're wondering, "When does gum disease require deep cleaning?" Read on to learn about the stages of gum disease, and how deep cleaning works to help.

When Should You Treat Gum Disease?

Gum disease starts with oral bacteria. Ideally, you'll be able to prevent gum disease before it ever happens. Oral hygiene is key to prevention.

That said, it's important to intervene as early as possible if you have it.

Prevention: Pre-Periodontal Disease Diagnosis

The best preventative measures are to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, and to see a dentist once or twice each year. It's wise to see a dentist more often if you're at higher risk of gum disease. Medications that cause dry mouth, hormonal treatments, and stress can elevate your risk.

Prevention Options for High-Risk Patients

If your risk is high, you can use mouthwash in addition to brushing and flossing.

Studies have demonstrated certain mouthwashes can further decrease the risk of gum disease. These can also help treat gum disease by reducing its severity. According to one recent analysis, the most effective mouthwashes typically include one or more of these ingredients:

At least 0.2% Chlorhexidine (CMX)
Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC)
0.05% Sodium fluoride (NaF)
0.1% dissolve curcumin extract

Other studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Aloe vera as a mouthwash ingredient. It can improve dental health and soothe irritated tissue at the same time.

Treatment: Mild to Moderate Gum Disease (Early Stage)

If you have early-stage gum disease, or your disease's severity is mild to moderate, a deep cleaning is the right treatment. Deep cleaning is scaling and root planing. Typically, dentists use local anesthetics, like novocaine, so the treatment is painless.

During a deep cleaning, the dentist uses manual and electric tools to remove the plaque from teeth. The process specifically removes plaque deposits that form in deep pockets of the gums. The deposits are the primary source of the germs that cause gum disease.

Deep cleaning pulls the gums from the roots of the teeth. After deep cleaning, the dentist will smooth out the roots, which encourages the gums to re-attach to the roots.

Dentists may prescribe an aftercare regimen after the deep cleaning is complete. This can involve prescription-strength toothpaste and mouthwash. You may be asked to avoid certain foods.

Treatment: Severe Gum Disease

Once gum disease has progressed and become severe, a deep cleaning may not be enough. At this stage, you may have already lost teeth and experience severe pain. A dentist will generally prescribe oral antibiotics to get the bacterial infection under control.

Once antibiotics start working, it's possible deep cleaning is still an option. But, more often, clinicians must address severe gum disease with debridement.

In some cases, debridement cannot be safely performed in a dentist office. This is an oral surgery that removes damaged or diseased tissue.

Dentists treat the most serious cases with gingivectomy or gingivoplasty surgeries. This removes diseased gum tissue and shapes healthy gum tissue.

Gum Disease Treatment Through Your Dentist in Coquitlam

Catch gum disease early with a dentist you trust. Get your next dental checkup right here, from a dentist in Coquitlam. Book an appointment by phone, or contact us online today.

Dentist in Coquitlam: Don’t Let Dental Infections Catch You Unaware

Tuesday, March 1st, 2022

Have you ever experienced a dental infection?

Dental infections, or dental abscesses, arise when a tooth is exposed to bacteria. Even simple cavities can result in dental abscesses when they're left untreated.

We're here to talk about dental infections and how a trip to your local dentist in Coquitlam can help you prevent them. Read on to learn more.

Why Are Dental Infections So Dangerous?

Dental infections don't only affect your teeth and gums.

While infections start in the mouth, they're quick to spread. Your infection can spread throughout your body and even to your brain (after all, your mouth and your brain aren't that far apart).

Dental infections don't have to be serious to cause those problems. Even a bad untreated cavity or a crack in a tooth can lead to a dental disaster.

Health Problems Associated With Dental Infections

Aside from the obvious pain that comes alongside a dental infection, there are several health problems that can arise if you don't get treatment from your local dentist.

A tooth infection can turn into a jaw infection which is harder to treat. You'll notice significant swelling and pain. Tooth infections can also turn into sinus irritation.

In more serious cases, a tooth infection could trigger Ludwig's Angina. This can cause your neck and throat to swell, which will make it harder to breathe, speak, and eat.

In the most serious cases, an untreated dental abscess could lead to meningitis.

Signs Of Infection

So how can you know if you have a dental abscess? What are the dental infection symptoms that you should look out for?

First, keep in mind that infections don't always cause pain, at least not right away. If you've had a root canal, or if you have a dental implant infection, you may not feel it because your nerve is dead.

In most cases, you'll experience at least some discomfort and inflammation. Most of the time patients will experience pain, and that pain will increase with pressure or hot and cold temperatures.

It's common to feel ill when you have a dental abscess and you may have a fever.

People with dental infections often have bad breath and they may find it difficult to open their mouths, eat, and sleep.

Prevention

Although problems can arise after dental emergencies (like cracked teeth), most dental infections can be avoided if you regularly visit your dentist.

One in four adults has at least one untreated cavity. While a cavity is "no big deal" when it first forms, it can turn into a dental abscess if it's allowed to grow.

When you visit your local dentist, they'll be able to identify problems before they get serious.

When you're not at the dentist's office, make sure that you're taking good care of your own dental hygiene. Brush your teeth twice per day with high-fluoride toothpaste, floss at least once per day, and make sure to replace your toothbrush every few months.

Is It Time To Visit Your Dentist In Coquitlam?

Dental infections are no joke! If you think that you might have a dental infection, or if it's been a while since your last appointment, it might be time to visit your dentist in Coquitlam.

At Brookmere Dental Group, we're here for all of your dental needs. Contact us to set up an appointment today.