Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques

When it comes to taking care of your teeth, proper brushing and flossing techniques can make a remarkable difference. Establishing a daily oral care routine should not be difficult. Unfortunately, you face an overload of information from advertisements touting the latest in brushing and flossing products.

Types of brushes:

Patients often ask us about the kind of brush they should use, so here is what we recommend:

• ·      Most individuals will benefit from a soft bristled brush. Softer bristles will be gentler on the teeth and gums, even if you have a heavy hand when brushing.
• ·      The head of the toothbrush should fit comfortably in your mouth. If the head is too large, you may not be able to properly brush your back teeth.
• ·      Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. Frayed or worn out bristles will do more damage than good.

Brushing technique:

While getting your teeth clean is important, over-brushing can actually be damaging to your teeth and gums. Brushing too hard can wear away the tooth enamel and cause sensitivity.

• ·      Brush your teeth twice a day: morning after having breakfast and at night after dinner
• ·      Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the tooth surface
• ·      Use short, gentle back and forth strokes
• ·      Clean all surfaces thoroughly
• ·      To clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth, hold the brush vertically and use gentle up and down strokes

Types of floss:

• -       Floss is available as waxed or unwaxed string.
• -       Waxed floss may glide more smoothly between your teeth.
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• -       The flavoring in floss is designed to make the process more enjoyable

Flossing Techniques:  

• ·      To use string floss you will need a piece that measures about 18 inches in length.
• ·      Wrap the ends a couple of times around your middle or index fingers.
• ·      Gently work the floss back and forth between each of your teeth.
• ·      You should be making a “C” shape against the tooth surface.
• ·      Be careful not to cut into your gums while flossing. If you notice any bleeding of your gums, consult your dentist.
• ·      Floss your teeth once a day. The time of day and the brushing and flossing sequence do not matter.

Your dentist is the best source of information when it comes to caring for your teeth. Every individual does have different needs and we will work with you to determine what works best for your situation. If you have questions regarding brushing techniques or which floss or toothbrush to use, please feel free to ask us at your next visit.

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