Dallas Dentist Discusses Proper Ways to Brush and Floss

Written by Dr. Lin on Nov 17, 2015

The Dallas Dentist is in the business of creating beautiful healthy smiles. A great smile not only makes you look more youthful and attractive. It also helps to boost your self confidence knowing that you are making a positive first impression.

Following a routine of proper oral hygiene at home can go a long way towards ensuring that your teeth not only look great but are healthy as well. Even though we all know the proper ways to brush and floss, it never hurts to review and make sure you’re getting the most out of your oral hygiene routine.

How to Brush

  • Brush at least twice a day. Once in the morning and then again before bedtime. If you are not sure which brush is right for you, we’ll be happy to help you select one that suits your needs.
  • Hold the toothbrush so it is at a 45-degree angle to your teeth.
  • When brushing near the gum line move the brush in small and gentle circular motions.
  • You do not need to apply a lot of pressure. This can actually damage gums and tooth enamel.
  • Be certain to brush every surface of every tooth, cheek-side, tongue-side, and chewing surfaces. You want to be especially sure to reach all surfaces of the back teeth.
  • Use back and forth strokes to brush the chewing surfaces.
  • Gently brushing your tongue will help remove fungi, food and debris.
Flossing Tips

  • As part of your exam and cleaning, our dentist or hygienist will instruct you on flossing techniques, but here’s a few things to keep in mind.
  • Flossing after meals, or at least twice daily, is an effective way to remove plaque from between teeth. Dental floss comes in all sorts of flavors so just choose the one that you are most likely to use regularly.
  • Cut a piece of floss about 18” long.
  • Wrap one end of the floss around the middle finger of the left hand and the other end around the middle finger of the right hand until the hands are 2-3 inches apart.
  • Work the floss gently between the teeth toward the gum line.
  • Curve the floss in a U-shape around each tooth, carefully sliding it beneath the gum line.
  • Carefully move the floss up and down several times to remove inter-dental plaque and debris.
If you still have questions, contact the Dallas Dentist office. A member of our dental team will be more than happy to answer them for you.