You may think that you’re following all the right steps to keep your mouth healthy, but don’t be so quick to be sure. If you haven’t checked in on your preventive dentistry techniques lately, it’s possible that no one has taught you how to do it properly since you were a child. Even if you have, it never hurts to take a good look at the recommended approach to brushing and flossing. Your teeth will thank you later.
How to Brush Your Teeth
The proper way to brush your teeth is with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the bristles toward the gum, but place them on the tooth. Then, run the brush in tight circles along your gum line on the front and back face of all your teeth. If this proves difficult for you due to another medical complication, try an electric toothbrush. Also, don’t forget to brush your tongue!
How to Floss Your Teeth
When you pull floss from the dispenser, don’t be shy about grabbing a long strand. This is actually supposed to be a somewhat gentle exercise, so keep that in mind that you want to rub your teeth, not scrape them. Try to remember also that you are flossing your teeth and not your gums. When your floss enters the space between your teeth, it should be up against a tooth. When it passes the gumline, make sure to keep pressing it lightly against your tooth, and then take it back against the other tooth.
How Often Should You Floss and Brush
For the best results, you should brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day or as recommended by your dentist. This routine should become second-nature as you get used to it. If you have a hard time committing, just remember that the benefit is a reduction in plaque, which should lead to a better twice-yearly checkup. Not only that, but good oral health can help prevent gum disease, gingivitis, tooth decay, and bad breath.
ABOUT YOUR PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS DENTIST:
With decades of professional dental care experience, native of Kansas City, Robert M Browne,DDS is proud to provide general, cosmetic, restorative, and prosthetic care to patients from Prairie Village and surrounding communities. To learn more or to schedule a visit with Dr. Browne, contact our office today at (913) 901-8585.
