Your technique for brushing and flossing is just as important to your oral hygiene routine as the products you choose. The ADA recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush.
Ideally, you should hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line. You shouldn’t simply saw the brush back and forth in your mouth. Instead, focus on brushing one tooth at a time. Be sure to brush the inner and outer surfaces of each tooth as well as the biting surface.
Flossing is the most effective tool for removing food particles from between teeth and the gum line. Don’t force the floss or snap it into your gums as this could injure the soft tissue. If you’re having trouble getting floss between your teeth, try using a waxed variety of floss.
Work the floss around your teeth in a U shape and gently work it into the space between your gum line and the tooth. Carefully use the floss to remove any food particles or unseen plaque from the gums. On larger teeth like molars, this might require three motions to focus on the rear and front of the gum line.
Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash can help freshen your breath and remove food particles from the mouth while also killing bacteria. It’s important to note that despite some marketing claims, mouthwash cannot replace the ability of floss to remove food particles from between teeth and around the gum line.
Keep taking good care of your teeth and they will take good care of you! At Sunshine Dental we are happy to help you keep healthy and smiling!