How to Brush and Floss Properly
You’ll reduce the length of time you have to spend in a dentist’s chair—and drastically reduce the procedures your teeth need—by regularly performing proper routine dental care.
What Should You Do Every Day?
Thoroughly brushing at least twice per day and regular flossing help prevent tooth decay, and may help prevent periodontal disease. Also, eat a balanced diet and don’t use tobacco products.
How Should You Brush?
It takes two or three minutes to brush properly. Begin by placing your brush on the outer side of your teeth, with the bristles angled toward the gum line. Move the brush back and forth using very short strokes, with the bristles rubbing against both teeth and gum. This massages the gum and cleans both the teeth and the areas where gums meet teeth. Extend brushing below the gum line. When you finish brushing the outer sides of your teeth this way, use the same technique on the inner sides (hold your brush vertically to reach the inside of the front teeth). Finally, brush the chewing surfaces.
How Should You Floss?
Many dentists now also recommend using water flossers instead of or in addition to string flossing. Follow the device manufacturer’s instructions. Many patients go for cordless, rechargeable models which can be used in the shower (flossers tend to splash water around, especially when wielded by newbies).
For manual flossing, guide the string between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Avoid snapping the floss into your gums; instead, curve the string into a “C” shape against one tooth and then gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth. Then, hold the floss tightly against the tooth and gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth, and don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.
What Type of Toothbrush Should You Use?
Use a toothbrush with soft nylon bristles and a head small enough to easily reach all areas. Used correctly, electric toothbrushes are extremely effective.
What Type of Toothpaste Should You Use?
Be sure it contains fluoride. Though others may be effective, choose one that bears the ADA’s “Seal of Acceptance.”
Should You Use a Fluoride Mouthwash?
A fluoride mouthwash is especially helpful for cavity-prone children, and may have value for adults as well. However, if you drink your community’s drinking water and it is fluoridated (as are public water supplies in most areas), and you use fluoride toothpaste, a fluoride mouthwash may not be necessary.
Remember that children should not use a fluoride mouthwash until they are old enough not to swallow it.
What About Diet?
Brushing, flossing, and seeing a dentist regularly won’t help much if you’re not providing your teeth and gums—and the rest of your body—proper nutrition. Also, avoid foods that contain high amounts of sugar.
