What’s the Right Way to Brush and Floss Your Teeth?

Is there a way to keep cavities and gum disease away? The answer is yes. Specifically, there are three things you can do regularly to keep your smile happy and healthy. The first is to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Second is to floss your teeth at least once daily. Finally, visit your Fleming Island dentist bi-annually to have your mouth examined and your teeth professionally cleaned.  

When you religiously follow these three tips, you can be sure that you’ll get to enjoy your smile for a very long time. However, for these to be effective you have to know the proper way to brush and floss your teeth.  

How Should You Brush and Floss Your Teeth? 

Brushing Basics 

Brushing may look easy but there is a strategic technique to get it right. Most importantly, try to brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes in the morning and before going to bed. The angle of the toothbrush should be at forty-five degrees directed at your gumline.  

Your strokes should be in a gentle up and down fashion and avoid scrubbing your teeth as this can cause gum recession. It’s also not advisable to brush your teeth too hard as this can lead to enamel erosion. Finally, change your toothbrush every three months to avoid transferring any left over bacteria. 

Flossing Basics 

Flossing is a vital part of your oral care routine. It removes plaque, food debris, and bacteria that has lodged itself in between your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed within twenty-four hours, it will harden and turn into tartar.  

To floss, your dentist suggests you wrap a piece of dental wax between your index and middle fingers. Leave a two-inch space between them. Slowly and gently slide the floss between your teeth. Wipe each tooth in a C-shaped fashion starting at the base of your tooth. Do it on both sides of each tooth. Yes, even the back one.  

Do You Need To See a Fleming Island Dentist? 

Once you’ve mastered your brushing and flossing, don’t forget to see your dentist for a professional teeth cleaning and dental exam. At Fleming Island Dental, we are committed to giving you the smile you deserve. Call us to learn more about our services.