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when it comes to brushing
do you really know what you’re doing? You’ve been brushing your teeth most of your life, so it’s easy to assume you’ve got the technique down. But, this daily routine is one of the most important factors of dental care, so if you aren’t doing it right, you probably aren’t getting effective results. We spoke with the Dental Center of Vidalia’s newest addition, Dr. Logan Christian, to find out exactly how proper brushing can make a big difference in dental health.
What is the correct way to brush my teeth? The first step is to choose a good toothbrush. You always want to use a soft brush
with a small head. Also, be sure to use only a pea size of toothpaste. A good brushing should take 2 minutes or ideally around 4 minutes. Try to brush your teeth after each meal. But if you can’t, brush at least twice a day after breakfast and before going to bed. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle toward the teeth and the gum. Gently press against the gum so the tips of the bristles go in between the gum and the teeth. Then apply lateral vibration for a few times and roll down the brush to sweep the plaque away from the teeth and the gum. Repeat this motion 6 to 10 times and move on to the next area
of 2 to 3 teeth. On chewing surfaces, short strokes will work best to get the plaque out of the grooves and pits. Also when brushing the front teeth from inside, hold your brush vertically to be able to reach the teeth better. After brushing, to maximize effectiveness, spit out the toothpaste, but don’t rinse your mouth. This keeps the fluoride in the toothpaste in contact with your teeth for a longer time.
What about using an electric brush? Generally, electric brushes are more effective in controlling plaque than manual brushes. You can achieve a very good
brushing with a regular hand brush but the movement of an electric brush makes the task easier and more efficient.
What’s the point of flossing? Since surfaces between teeth are not accessible to brush, the best way to clean them is to floss. You can floss as often as you brush–ideally after each meal–though one time a day (before bedtime) is the minimum necessary. The goal is to clean the teeth surfaces and not the gum. In spaces between the teeth, press the floss against each tooth and gently move it back and forth and up and down before moving to the next tooth.
who is Dr. Logan Christian? Dr. Logan Christian is a Georgia native who was born in Columbus and raised in Waynesboro. Like his father, Dr. Johnny Christian, he decided to pursue a career in medicine to help people. “Growing up, I watched my dad develop a relationship with our community both inside and outside of work, and I realized how valuable that is,” said Dr. Christian. After graduating from Edmund Burke Academy in 2012, Dr. Christian attended Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where he earned a degree in Chemistry, played football and met his fiancé Tilly. “As a college sophomore, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with a science degree. One of my teammate’s uncles had graduated in dentistry, and he kept telling me to come check it out. So I did, and I really liked it.” In May 2021, he earned his DMD from the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry. Through alumni relations at MCG, Dr. Christian connected with Dr. Kimbrel and Dr. Hamilton of the Dental Center of Vidalia. He believes the standard of work, character and 20
TO O M B S CO U N T Y M A G A Z I N E
humility of the professionals at the Dental Center of Vidalia are unmatched making him a perfect fit with the staff. Hailing from a small town, Dr. Christian fully understands the value of patient care and relationships. “What I enjoy most is the relationship you develop with patients and seeing their satisfaction when a dental plan has been completed,” said Dr. Christian. “I really look forward to starting a family here and finding ways to serve the community.” In addition to his love for dentistry, Dr. Christian is an avid sportsman. He enjoys being outdoors where he can often be found hunting and fishing. He also loves to travel–especially if Baker, his 3 year old Boykin, can tag along. To make an appointment with Dr. Christian, call 912-537-7048
Dr. Logan Christian
