A beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime is our ultimate goal when treating our patients. Your personal home care plays an important role in achieving that goal.
Tooth brushing – Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every 6-8 weeks.
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Place the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums and gently brush using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.
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Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
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Hold the brush vertically and use the tip of the brush to clean the inside of your front teeth.
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Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Electric toothbrushes are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time. Be sure to replace the head of your electric brush every 6-8 weeks.
Flossing – Daily flossing is the best way to clean between your teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from growing, preventing damage to your gums, teeth, and supporting bone.
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Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between your hands.
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Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion.
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Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and carry it under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, scraping the side of each tooth.
Floss holders may be helpful if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
Rinsing – It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter rinse, it’s a good idea to consult with us as to its appropriateness for you.
Other dental aids are sometimes recommended. These include: Interdental brushes, rubber tip stimulators, tongue cleaners, irrigation devices, fluoride, and medicated rinses. All can play a role in good dental home care.