Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. While bi-annual professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and debris, excellent home care methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle, and help prevent serious diseases.

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Why Proper Brushing and Flossing Are Essential

  • Prevention of tooth decay: Tooth decay is a leading cause of tooth loss and often requires complex dental treatment. Decay occurs when acids in plaque erode the enamel. Proper home hygiene can prevent this.
  • Prevention of periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that can cause tooth, gum, and jawbone loss. It is caused by toxins in plaque. Regular brushing and flossing remove plaque and calculus (tartar), helping prevent periodontal problems.
  • Prevention of halitosis: Bad breath is usually caused by food particles on or between the teeth. Brushing and flossing remove these particles, keeping the mouth healthy and breath fresh.
  • Prevention of staining: Staining from coffee, tea, or smoking can be minimized by regular brushing and flossing, preventing permanent discoloration.

The Proper Way to Brush

Brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush no more than three months old. Electric toothbrushes with rotating or oscillating heads are highly recommended by the ADA for effective plaque removal.

  • Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where the gums and teeth meet.
  • Use small circular motions to gently brush the gumline and teeth.
  • Avoid scrubbing or using too much pressure, which can damage gums and enamel.
  • Brush every surface of each tooth: cheek-side, tongue-side, and chewing surfaces, with extra attention to back teeth.
  • Use back-and-forth strokes on chewing surfaces.
  • Brush the tongue to remove fungi, food, and debris.

The Proper Way to Floss

Flossing removes plaque from interdental regions (between the teeth) and helps prevent periodontal disease. Daily flossing is recommended, and the type or flavor of floss should be easy and pleasant to use.

  • Cut a piece of floss approximately 18 inches long.
  • Wrap one end around the middle finger of the left hand and the other around the middle finger of the right hand, leaving 2–3 inches between the hands.
  • Gently work the floss between the teeth toward the gum line.
  • Curve the floss in a “U” shape around each tooth and carefully slide it beneath the gum line.
  • Move the floss up and down several times to remove interdental plaque and debris.
  • Avoid snapping the floss in and out, as this can injure the gums.

If you have any questions about the correct way to brush or floss, please contact our office.