Brushing and flossing are important steps in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Both brushing and flossing remove food and plaque from under the gums and from in between the teeth.
HOW TO FLOSS
Plaque is the main cause of gum disease. Plaque is an invisible bacterial film that develops on our teeth everyday. Plaque found between teeth can be removed with flossing.
STEP 1 – Take an arms length of floss from the container.
STEP 2 – Wrap the floss around your middle finger of both hands.
STEP 3 – Slide the floss between your teeth and wrap it into a ‘C’ shape using your index finger and thumb.
Gently glide the floss up and down the tooth, making sure to get right down to the base. Make sure to floss both sides of every tooth.
Roll up the used floss into a ball and put it in the garbage. Never flush floss down the toilet.
Next comes brushing. Brushing after flossing is a more effective way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
HOW TO BRUSH
Remember to brush at least once during the day and always before going to bed.
STEP 1 – Direct the toothbrush bristles towards the point where your teeth and gums meet.
STEP 2 – Brush at a 45 degree angle to your teeth.
STEP 3 – Using a gentle, circular motion, brush your teeth up and down. Don’t scrub.
Clean every surface of your teeth: biting surface, cheek side, and tongue side. Don’t rush when you brush. Brushing should take 2 minutes.
Use a soft or extra soft toothbrush. Choose a size and shape that allows you to reach all the way to your back teeth.
Talk to your dental hygienist. We always welcome new patients to our Jasper Ave office.
