THE SULCUS

(The little canal around each tooth where the gums meet the tooth)

Below Dr. Stepovich explains and diagrams the sulcus for "Zero Bleeding" program.

ZERO BLEEDING INFORMATION Most tooth brushes have rounded bristles to safely clean the sulcus and gum tissue. The sulcus is the place where plaque accumulates, and these rounded bristles effectively carry away harmful plaque from the sulcus and all areas of the teeth and gums. Using a multi-leveled tooth brush is ideal for cleaning the sulcus and areas between the teeth. Plaque left in the sulcus causes bleeding. The reason is plaque in the sulcus attracts bacteria and causes gingivitis that bleeds when brushing or flossing. Remove the plaque twice daily with proper tooth brushing and have no bleeding, because the healed gum tissue is not inflamed and bleeding. "Zero Bleeding" requires sulcus brushing twice a day. When the sulcus remains inflamed and bleeding (known as gingivitis) because of improper brushing. This infection can move down the tooth to make a pocket. This now creates a more serious condition know as gum disease (periodontal disease). Where the pocket goes from 4mm to 6mm to 8mm. There is no pain with this gum disease and eventually causes the loss of a tooth. "Zero Bleeding Brushing" prevents gum disease! By- Dr. Michael L. Stepovich Orthodontist and Facial Orthopedist