WEBVTT

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We use our mouths to do a lot

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of things, including eating,
 drinking, talking and smiling

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because our mouths play
 such a big role in our day to day lives.

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It is important to make sure
 that they do not get worn down or damaged.

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Developing and practicing good dental
 hygiene and home care is the best way

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to avoid oral problems,
 such as tooth decay and gum disease,

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which can lead to more severe issues
 like tooth loss and bone loss.

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The two most important dental
 hygiene habits you can practice at home

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are brushing and flossing
 your teeth, brushing.

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You should brush your teeth

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at least twice a day in the morning
 and at night if possible.

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It is also good to brush your teeth
 after every meal as this will

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remove food particles
 that can feed harmful bacteria.

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When you brush, use a soft bristle
 brush and fluoride toothpaste,

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hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree

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angle with the tip of the toothbrush
 pointed towards the gums.

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Press firmly, yet gently,
 and rotate the brush in a circular motion.

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Scrubbing your teeth can cause the gums
 to pull away from the teeth and weaken

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a tooth enamel brush, all surfaces
 of the teeth, including the front back.

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And biting surfaces.

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Be sure to also brush your tongue
 from front to back.

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This will help remove plaque
 that causes bad breath

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flossing, floss your teeth
 at least once a day.

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The most ideal time to floss is at night
 before going to bed.

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The type of floss is not important,
 but choose the flavor that you like.

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You should use about
 18 inches of floss each time.

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Wrap each end of the floss
 around your middle fingers,

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leaving about a two inch string
 between your fingers.

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Gently insert the floss between your teeth
 and curve it into a U shape.

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Moving the floss
 up and down to remove plaque.

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Be sure to slide the floss
 underneath the gum line

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and to clean the teeth
 on both sides of the floss.

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For best results,
 use a clean section of floss.

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Each time you insert the floss
 between the teeth.

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While daily brushing and flossing are
 essential to maintaining a healthy mouth,

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there are several other dental
 hygiene habits you can make a part

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of your daily routine, such
 as using a mouthwash with your brushing

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and flossing to kill bacteria
 and keep your teeth strong.

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Maintaining a mouth friendly diet.

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This includes limiting your consumption
 of sugar, coffee,

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soda, alcohol and acidic foods.

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Drinking water after eating
 and between meals

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to wash away food particles
 that can contribute to tooth decay.

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There are many other ways
 you can care for your teeth at home

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to know which dental hygiene
 practices are best for you.

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Talk to your dentist

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during your next visit based
 on the condition of your oral health.

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Some dental hygiene
 habits may be recommended over others.