BRUSHING

There are many brushing techniques that are effective. Ask your hygienist to show you the proper way to brush. Patients are advised to check with their dentist or hygienist to determine which is the best brushing method for them since tooth position and gum condition vary. In general, a toothbrush head should be small for easy access. It should have a long, wide handle for a firm grip. It should have soft, nylon bristles with rounded ends. Some brushes are too abrasive and can wear down teeth. Medium and hard bristles are discouraged. Patients generally think they brush longer, but most spend less than a minute brushing. To make sure you're doing a thorough job and not missing any areas, patients are advised to brush a full 3-4 minutes twice a day. Brushing removes plaque from your teeth. Using a fluoride toothpaste is important because the fluoride can make your teeth stronger. Children may need smaller brushes than those designed for adults. Remember: worn-out toothbrushes can not properly clean your teeth and may injure your gums. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three or four months.

FLOSSING

Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gumline, areas your toothbrush can not reach. Because tooth decay and periodontal disease often start in these areas, it is important to clean them thoroughly on a daily basis. Flossing is a skill that needs to be learned. Do not be discouraged if you find it difficult at first. With practice, you will find that flossing takes only a few minutes of your time each day.