How to brush your teeth
You should brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day to remove plaque and to prevent tooth decay. Follow the steps below for proper brushing. Please contact our dental office if you have any questions.
1. Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree
| 2. Brush gently in a circular motion. |
| 3. Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
| 4. Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.
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You should replace your toothbrush every three or four months - or sooner if the bristles become frayed. A worn toothbrush will not do a good job of cleaning your teeth. Children's toothbrushes often need replacing more frequently than adults because they can wear out sooner.
By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting the dentist regularly, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.
You should floss your teeth thoroughly at least once a day to remove plaque from the areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. Follow the steps below for proper flossing, and please contact our dental office if you have any questions.
| 1. Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and as the floss is used, the other finger takes it up.
| 2. Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.
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| 3. Holding the floss tightly, gently saw the floss between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.
| 4. Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.
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People who have difficulty handling dental floss may prefer to use another kind of interdental cleaner. These aids include special brushes, picks, and sticks. If you use interdental cleaners, please ask our dentists about how to use them properly to avoid injuring your gums.