Flossing between your teeth is something most patients neglect, says UK-based dentist Dr. Hanna Kinsella. But flossing is an important part of your dental care routine as it helps remove plaque buildup in areas your toothbrush can't reach, especially if your teeth aren't quite straight.
Sometimes when you floss teeth, particularly at the back, it can smell bad. This means food particles have become trapped between the teeth or in the gum and have begun to rot. "The smell is the sulphur gas produced by rotting. If it persists or comes with symptoms such as pain or discomfort, see your dentist for an expert opinion," says Dr. Kinsella and recommends choosing a toothpaste with fluoride.
Opting for an electric toothbrush can also help, as the bristles vibrate or rotate to help you remove more plaque from your teeth and gums than when you move a toothbrush across your teeth manually.
How to take care after removing a wisdom tooth
Wisdom tooth removal is a big undertaking and you have to give your mouth time to heal properly. Here are a few things that you can do to aid the process:
Rest - after surgery, you shouldn't do anything strenuous and you shouldn't exercise.
It's best to stick to soft foods such as eggs, soups, pasta, and youghurt for the first few days after surgery. Make sure you steer clear of foods with seeds as they can become lodged in the extraction socket.
You'll probably have some swelling after the extraction so apply an ice pack to your face 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
Your dentist will advise about taking painkillers to alleviate the pain, so follow their instructions as to how much and how often to take them.
You might not feel like brushing your teeth as your gums are very sensitive but it's important to keep your teeth clean. Brush your teeth gently. avoiding the area that's sore. Use a mouthwash or saltwater rinse afterward.
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