Every day, you need to brush and floss to help remove harmful food particles and bacteria, which help prevent everything from cavities to gum disease. But to do so, you really need to brush and floss the right way. In today’s blog, your Brighton, MA, dentists will explain how to carefully and properly brush and floss your teeth.
Steps to Brush Properly
First, let’s talk about your toothbrush. Manual or electric is up to you, as brushing correctly with either one is good for your smile. But! We do recommend choosing one with soft bristles. If you brush too rough with medium or hard bristles, you risk inadvertent damage to your enamel, which could cause sensitivity. You should also take time to choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride, a naturally-occurring mineral that will strengthen the outer tooth enamel. You should brush when you first wake up and again before bed for two minutes each session. Doing so helps remove food particles and limit plaque buildup. Be sure you reach every surface of your teeth, also gently brush your gums and your tongue too.
Flossing Each Night
Every evening you also need to floss your teeth. This removes the food and harmful bacteria caught between teeth and beyond the reach of a tooth rush. This is essential for avoiding gingivitis and gum disease! You should floss using a 20-inch length of tape, with each end wrapped around one of your thumbs. Your index finger can hold it taut, while you move the tape up and down each side of every tooth. Adjusting your grip could allow you to use a clean portion of each tooth too.
Seeing Our Team
Actions at home are critical, but you also need to undergo preventive visits with our team. A checkup is a chance for us to examine your smile for signs of trouble, so we can address them early. A cleaning in the same visit let us remove all plaque and tartar to protect your teeth and gums. You should see us every six months, or every three to four months if you have high risk factors for gum disease. If you have any questions about these visits, or if you would like to schedule one, then contact our team today. We would also be happy to talk in more detail about better brushing and flossing habits, and could recommend a toothbrush and toothpaste brand!
Do You Have Questions About Oral Hygiene?
We would like to help you take steps to safeguard your smile at home. To learn more about how to keep your smile strong and healthy, then schedule a consultation by calling Brighton Family Dental Group in Brighton, MA, today at (617) 562-5210. We proudly welcome patients from Brookline, Newton, and all surrounding communities.
