Empire State Today

Francesca Oddo, a Registered Dental Hygienist at Babylon Dental Care, emphasizes the importance of flossing before brushing to remove debris and prepare teeth for optimal cleaning.

"When it comes to brushing your teeth, you want to sweep before you mop," said Oddo. "One of the newer trends is brushing with charcoal toothpaste, which does have benefits such as removing extrinsic stains, but it's abrasive and may be too rough for everyday use."

According to Oddo, oral hygiene extends beyond daily brushing and flossing, with proper techniques significantly impacting dental health. She advocates for the "sweep before you mop" technique, which involves flossing first to eliminate food particles and debris before brushing. Oddo suggests forming a soft "C" or "V" shape with the floss along the gumline for effective cleaning between teeth. After flossing, she advises brushing for two minutes and avoiding immediate rinsing to allow fluoride to penetrate the enamel fully, thereby strengthening teeth.

The American Dental Association advises that selecting the right toothbrush and knowing when to replace it is equally crucial. They recommend changing toothbrushes or toothbrush heads every three months or sooner if recovering from an illness. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is vital to prevent gum recession, which can lead to root exposure and sensitivity. The association warns that medium or hard-bristled brushes can damage gums over time, affecting oral health.

Mouthwash can be a beneficial addition to daily oral care routines if chosen correctly. Oddo states that many mouth rinses merely freshen breath without providing significant benefits. She recommends selecting mouth rinses labeled as effective against plaque and gingivitis or those containing fluoride to reduce sensitivity, prevent cavities, and strengthen enamel. Oddo also advises children undergoing orthodontic treatment to use fluoridated mouth rinse and wait at least 30 minutes after rinsing before eating or drinking.

VeryWellHealth cautions patients against certain oral hygiene trends that may cause more harm than good. For instance, while charcoal toothpaste can help remove stains, excessive use may lead to dental issues. Similarly, overusing whitening products can damage enamel. Oddo recommends limiting whitening treatments to twice a year for maintaining a healthier smile and avoiding unnecessary dental problems.

According to the Babylon Dental Care website, Francesca joined their team in 2018 as a Registered Dental Hygienist and was promoted in 2023 to Hygiene Team Lead. She values collaboration with her teammates at BDC, highlighting the genuine teamwork that defines their dynamic. "We’re a true team; it’s as simple as that," she said. "I’ve heard many patients say that Babylon Dental Care is like a well-oiled machine."