We will show you how to brush and floss your teeth in this article. Many people have been brushing and flossing their teeth for years but many of us who think we’ve been doing it the right way are surprised to find out that we weren’t. Below are essential steps and answers on popular questions. It is important to brush and floss for optimal dental health.
How Long Should I brush My Teeth for and Is there Any Special Technique?
It is important to brush teeth continuously with a soft bristle brush for at least two minutes. You’d be surprised to know that most adults don’t spend that much time brushing! Tilting the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle using short, gentle strokes, assures that the gum lines and hard-to-reach areas surrounding fillings and or crowns are brushed well – it is common for food to get stuck in these areas. It is also important to brush each tooth with short back and forth strokes. Brushing your tongue is also important to remove any bacteria build up.
What is the Best Kind of Toothbrush and How Often Do I need to Get a New One?
A soft bristled brush is best for removing plaque and debris. It is also recommended that small-headed brushes be used, as they are easier to reach all areas of the mouth. Toothbrushes should be replaced when worn and at minimum every 2-3 months to prevent bacteria growth build up on the brush from entering your mouth.
How do I Floss My Teeth and How Do I Stop My Gums from Bleeding?
It is important to be diligent when flossing teeth to make sure that any food particles; plaque and bacteria do not remain in the small spaces between the teeth. Gently curving the floss around each individual tooth and making sure that the floss makes contact with the gums is important. Your gums may bleed at first, but once flossing becomes a part of your regular routine, the bleeding should stop. If you do continue to bleed after brushing and flossing over a period of time, contact us.
Steps on How to Brush and Floss Your Teeth
If you are in a hurry and want a quick list on how to brush and floss your teeth, you can save this short list for use every day:
- Brush for 2 minutes
- Tilt the toothbrush on a 45 degree angle
- Use short gentle strokes
- Brush your tongue
- Use a soft bristled brush
- Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months
- Curve floss around each tooth
- Make sure floss gets in contact with your gums
- Floss regularly to avoid bleeding
- Get a professional teeth cleaning / dental exam every 6 months
Contact Us for More Information About How to Brush and Floss Your Teeth
Please contact us anytime, with any questions you may have about how to brush and floss your teeth or to schedule a teeth cleaning / dental exam. With our 20 years of excellence, you will feel at ease knowing that your oral heath is our first priority. You can email us or call (604) 539-9374. We look forward to becoming your dentist and are located in Langley. We are a kid friendly dentist too and would be delighted to be your trusted family dentist.