14 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 200 • Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Brushing
The Road to Health is Paved with Proper Brushing
The Downhill Slide
Although most people think they know the reasons for proper, daily tooth brushing, few people realize that clean teeth and healthy gums can protect against a variety of general, even life-threatening, health problems. When you don't brush regularly, harmful bacteria multiply and plaque forms. Combined with sugar, saliva, mucus, and food debris, plaque creates a strong acid substance that eats away protective tooth enamel to cause tooth decay. A downhill slide can result.
Over time, the decay works its way below the enamel to infect tooth dentin, and this can cause pain and kill teeth. Meanwhile, plaque build up on tooth surfaces irritates gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth and expose the sensitive tooth roots. Loose gums form pockets where bacteria and infection gather. This nasty stuff can destroy the bone that holds teeth secure, resulting in tooth loosening or loss. Finally, chronic gum disease can break down the protective barrier between oral bacteria and your blood stream. This allows bacteria to enter your blood stream and increases the risk for a host of health problems like heart disease, stroke, respiratory illness, diabetes complications, and pregnancy complications.
The Uphill Climb
Maintain good oral health by establishing a solid habit of brushing twice daily with a soft toothbrush, using the proper technique and quality fluoride toothpaste, and flossing carefully once a day. What's the best brushing technique? That depends on your personal dentition, but general guidelines apply to all patients.
First, choose toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval. You should spend at least three to four minutes brushing with a small, soft, angled brush in little, circular motions across all tooth surfaces and the gum line. Cover two to three teeth at a time, applying gentle pressure. Harsh brushing can damage gums and cause painful sensitivity. After brushing your teeth, remember to brush or scrape your tongue to remove germs and bacteria that harm teeth and cause bad breath. Finally, rinse your entire mouth with water and spit out the debris. Brush twice daily or after meals, and floss between teeth once a day.
For more thorough brushing, consider purchasing an electric toothbrush. Some models feature an automatic cut off or warning light that kicks into action when you brush too harshly. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months so that the bristles remain effectively positioned and clean. For fresh breath and further prevention of bad bacteria, follow up with an over-the-counter mouthwash.
"Dr. Stephen Gershberg is a skilled and caring dentist adept at all phases of modern practice. I am especially impressed with his kind and thoughtful approach to his patient's needs. Dr Gershberg provides personalized care and his attention to detail and esthetics is superb. His staff is always pleasant, and the office atmosphere is warm and relaxed. I highly recommend Dr. Gershberg's practice."
Robert Summers, DMD
Periodontics and Implantology, Narberth, PA
"Congratulations on your new web site. I'm sure that the people who view it will see, as I
have throughout the many years of working with you, the high artistic quality of your work. They will understand what a fine clinician you are, and realize how much time and effort you devote to giving your patients such high quality dental care. You are a real asset to the dental profession, and one of the gold standards of quality dental care in the 21st century."
Harvey Wank DMD
Chairman, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dentistry
Bryn Mawr Hospital
Assistant Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Medical School
"Having worked with you for many years, I would like to compliment you on the remarkable clinical and esthetic results you are able to achieve with your patients. When it comes to perfection, there is certainly no compromise. Words do not express the satisfaction of your patients with regards the crowns, bridges, porcelain veneers and implant restorations you have placed. The exquisite artistry displayed behind each individual smile is a direct tribute to the excellent work you perform. Keep up the good work."
Geoffrey Rabie DMD, BDS
Diplomat American Board of Endodontics
"I have been very fortunate to work with Dr. Gershberg for some fifteen years now. His persistent pursuit of perfection and beautiful aesthetic work speaks for itself. P.S. I was talking with my sister Val the other day about the work you did for her boyfriend Dave, and she just could not say enough about how pleased they were with his teeth as well as how easy it was to work with you as a professional in getting exactly what he wanted.
Hope all is well! "
Tom Seibert, DMD
Periodontics and Implantology, Bryn Mawr. PA
"It has been a great pleasure to work with you over the last five years. I am always greatly impressed with the high quality of your work and with your unwavering commitment to your patients. My expectations for the level of care for my patients are always exceeded by your high standard of excellence. I look forward to collaborating with you long into the future!"
John Whytosek, DMD
Periodontics and Implantology
Broomall, PA
Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontics
Interested in hearing about what our patients and doctors have to say? Check out our testimonials page OR click here to read more and schedule an appointment with us today OR call and speak with us directly at 610-527-6700
