How to Brush and Floss Your Teeth Properly

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum disease than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is through proper brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

How to Brush Your Teeth

Drs. Jenkins and Borowiec recommend using a soft toothbrush. Here's the proper technique:

1. Position the brush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet
2. Use gentle circular motions with small, gentle strokes on the outside surfaces
3. Apply light pressure to get bristles between teeth, but not so much that you feel discomfort
4. Clean inside surfaces of back teeth using the same technique
5. For front teeth, hold the brush vertically and make gentle back-and-forth strokes
6. Don't forget to gently brush the surrounding gum tissue
7. Clean biting surfaces with short, gentle strokes
8. Rinse vigorously to remove loosened plaque

Watch yourself in the mirror to ensure you clean each surface thoroughly.

How to Floss Properly

Flossing removes plaque from between teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. Here's how to do it right:

1. Start with about 18 inches of floss (waxed is easier)
2. Wrap most of it around the middle finger of one hand
3. Wrap the rest around the middle finger of your other hand
4. Hold the floss tightly between thumb and forefinger
5. Gently insert using a back-and-forth motion—don't snap it into place
6. Curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth
7. Slide it into the space between gum and tooth until you feel light resistance
8. Move the floss up and down on each tooth surface
9. Remember: there are two surfaces to clean in each space!
10. Use fresh sections of floss as it becomes soiled

Don't Be Alarmed by Bleeding

During the first week of flossing, your gums may bleed or feel sore. This is normal! As you floss daily and remove plaque, your gums will heal and the bleeding should stop. If bleeding persists, give us a call.

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East Lake Dental Team

The East Lake Dental team is committed to providing exceptional dental care in a comfortable environment.