Chances are, at some point, you’ve been told that, to maintain optimal oral health, all you need is to “brush and floss regularly.” It all sounds easy enough. However, while brushing and flossing aren’t exactly complicated, it’s vital to understand that there is a "correct" way to do each.
Using the right technique for brushing and flossing makes a massive difference in helping maintain dental and periodontal health, preventing plaque buildup, and reducing the risks of gum disease and cavities.
Let’s take a closer look at how to refine your approach to daily brushing and flossing to ensure your smile’s long-term radiance and health.
Choosing the Right Brushing Technique
It’s easy to think of brushing as little more than a quick swipe, but there’s more to it for optimally effective cleaning:
- To prevent unnecessary enamel wear, use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Brush at a 45-degree angle towards the gums using short, circular strokes to gently clean dental surfaces without harming your gums.
- Aim to brush for at least two minutes, with a focus on covering every surface.
- Avoid pressing too hard, as it can wear down enamel and gum tissue.
- Change your toothbrush about every three months or after an illness.
Flossing for a Deeper Clean
Regular flossing helps remove debris and plaque between teeth where brushing can’t reach, prevents gum inflammation, and keeps decay at bay. For proper flossing, tear off about 18 inches of floss, wrap most of it tightly around each middle finger, and smoothly slide the taut middle section between your teeth. It’s important to remember, as with brushing, that more force doesn’t yield better results, and in some cases can even damage gum tissue.
By taking note of these tips and refining your brushing and flossing techniques, you can effectively protect your teeth and gums for the long term.
Refine Your Dental Care Techniques with a Top Family Dentist in Brandon, FL
If you’re in Brandon and looking for a top-quality dental practice to provide vital dental care when you need it and help you refine your at-home routine to ensure the need never even arises, contact Dr. Sarah Barr and the excellent Walker Barr, DMD team to schedule an appointment!