Proper Brushing helps remove plaque from the chewing surfaces of your teeth. An accepted method for proper brushing is described in the next column. Our office may suggest another technique depending upon your needs.
Flossing thoroughly helps remove plaque and debris from between teeth, especially in hard-to-reach places at and slightly under the gum line.
For good results from brushing, we suggest a fluoride toothpaste that reduces tartar formation and protects against cavities.
HOW TO FLOSS
Wind 18" of floss around your pointer and middle finger.
Gently guide the floss between teeth.
To remove plaque and debris, gently move the floss up and down against the tooth.
As you move from tooth to tooth, use a fresh section of floss each time.
HOW TO BRUSH
For a thorough but gentle cleaning, use a soft toothbrush.
Hold your brush at a 45 degree angle. Begin by brushing the outside of the front teeth. Use gentle, half tooth wide, back and forth strokes.
Next, brush the outside of the back teeth, starting along the gum line.
Inside the back teeth, tilt the brush vertically, and use an up and down motion.
On the Chewing surfaces, hold the brush flat . Use a gentle motion.
Many people benefit from electric tooth brushes. Our office will be pleased to instruct you on the most efficient way to use these appliances. We recommend the ORAL-B BRAUN or the SONICARE.
Taking Care of Unseen Business.
Tooth enamel is hard. It consists of many closely-packed rods made of minerals. When you eat, acid forms on the outside of the tooth and seeps into the enamel’s rods. This demineralization process can produce a weak spot in the tooth and seeps into the enamel’s rods. This demineralization process can produce a weak spot in the tooth’s surface. If unchecked, the enamel can decay and create a cavity.
Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay by slowing the breakdown of enamel and speeding up the natural remineralization process.
Don’t forget to regularly schedule
an appointment every 3, 4 or 6 months.
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