PATIENT EDUCATION

Link to ADA American Dental Association.

Brushing

Toothbrushes

Everybody should use a soft toothbrush, anything firmer than soft can cause damage to the gum tissue.

Replace toothbrushes every 3-6 months, or when the bristles become frayed or flatened.

Technique

1. It is important to gently brush the gumline as well as the tooth surface.
2. Hold the toothbrush at an angle (aproximately 45 degrees) to the gum/tooth surface.
3. Move toothbrush in either a small circular motion or a small back and forth motion covering only 2 to 3 teeth at a time. NO SCRUBBING back to front.
4. When brushing the inside areas near the tongue hold the toothbrush with more of a vertical angle to help reach the gumline.
5. Brush across the top, chewing surface, to clean out the grooves on top of your teeth.

*If you have areas of recession (root exposure), you may be able to find sensitive or extra soft toothbrushes.

Hold your toothbrush at the gumline GENTLY move the toothbrush in either a circular motion or vibrate to the count of ten then roll the toothbrush away from the gum tissue to the edge of the tooth.

Frequency

You should be brushing at least twice a day, every morning and and at bedtime. Brush more often if you eat frequently or snack throughout the day.

Flossing

Floss types

Unwaxed - is thinner.
Waxed floss - will go through tight teeth easier because of the wax coating.
Dental Tape - is thicker/stronger and usually has a waxed coating.
Shred resistant - (ex: Glide or Oral B satin) has a special coating so it doesn't shred.

Technique

1. Use a strand approximately 12-18 inches long.
2. Wrap floss around your middle fingers.
3. Guide between your teeth with either index to index finger or thumb to index finger.
4. Move the floss side to side (sawing motion) to get past the tight contact area of the teeth.
5. BE CAREFUL not ot snap the floss into the gum tissue.
6. Now move the floss up and down the side of the tooth, curving the floss to stay in tight contact with the tooth.

General

Once a day is all you need to floss, more if there is an area where food gets caught. Flossing is best if done at night, but can be done anytime of day.