One of the easiest ways to help prevent gum disease is to brush and floss every day, therefore it is very important to know the correct way to take care of your teeth and gums. It does not matter if you brush first or floss first, as long as you do both (and twice a day!). In our office, we will work with you on how to perform oral hygiene properly. We will help you to personalize your oral hygiene regimen based on your personal needs.
Equipment needed
The most commonly used toothbrush is the manual toothbrush. Another option is the electric toothbrush, which uses electrical power to move the brush head. The resulting vibrations that are created gently clean the teeth. It is important to always choose a soft brush head when using either a manual or electric toothbrush, and to replace the toothbrush when the bristles begin to bend (usually every two to three months).
According to a recent study in the Journal of the American Academy of Periodontology, all dental flosses are equally effective. This means that it does not matter which type of floss you choose to use. There are many different varieties of floss, including waxed, unwaxed, flavored, and shred-resistant, so there is a type of floss out there for everyone. The proxybrush is also very useful for cleaning braces, around crowns and bridges; and around dental implants.
How to Brush
Position the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. While applying slight pressure, gently move the brush in a circular motion using short strokes. Use this method to clean the front of your teeth, then move to the back of your teeth, then the biting surfaces, and then your tongue, using the same gentle movements. Be sure you are constantly moving the brush head softly to avoid damaging your gums!
How to Floss
Using about 18 inches of floss, wrap the floss around your middle finger. Wrap the rest around your other middle finger, leaving 2-3 inches of floss between your fingers. While tightly holding the floss between your thumbs, insert it between two teeth. Curve the floss into a “C” shape against the tooth, and gently slide it up and down. Then, with the floss still in between the two teeth, switch the “C” shape against the adjacent tooth, and repeat the sliding motion. Move to the next tooth over, and repeat the process, unwrapping fresh floss from your middle finger as you go.
How to use the Proxybrush
Using a wet proxy brush, insert it into the spaces that are between each tooth. Move the brush in and out several times in each space. From the outside of your teeth towards the inside of your mouth; and from the inside (close to the palate and tongue) towards the outside. Clean the brush under running water during each use to remove food and plaque. When the filaments become deformed or loose, this is an indication that the brush needs to be replaced!
Ask us for more information on brushing and flossing techniques!