Brushing & Flossing
Good oral hygiene is one of the most important things to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Our dentists will show you how to effectively brush and floss to maintain a healthy smile.
Toothbrushing
Here are some tips to make toothbrushing more effective:
- Always use a soft toothbrush (A hard brush will wear away your teeth and gums)
- Use a gentle circular motion at a 45 degree angle to the gumline
- Brush every tooth surface: outside (next to cheeks), inside (next to tongue/roof of mouth) and the chewing surface
- Brush twice a day, morning and night, with a fluoride toothpaste
- Children under the age of 8 will require parental supervision
Which toothbrush is better – manual or electric?
Deciding whether to buy an electric or manual toothbrush basically comes down to what the user desires as far as comfort and convenience go. Whatever toothbrush that you decide to buy, remember that using it is what’s really important.
If you brush incorrectly, it doesn’t matter what kind of toothbrush you use. A manual toothbrush can be just as effective as an electric brush if the right technique is used. Electric toothbrushes have more ergonomic handles and can be helpful for arthritis sufferers.
Flossing
Flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Food and plaque trapped between teeth is the major cause of tooth cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. If flossing proves difficult, aids such as floss holders or interdental brushes may be more suitable. Please ask the dentist for a demonstration.