How to Brush Your Teeth and Floss Properly

Brushing and flossing are the two primary techniques that help us maintain proper dental hygiene and good oral health. Brushing helps remove dental plaque from the surface of the teeth, whereas flossing helps remove dental plaque from areas in between the teeth, which helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Here are a few tips and tricks on brushing and flossing your teeth. 

How to Brush?

• Don't brush too hard or for too long. In fact, you should only use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. Use gentle back-and-forth motions with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque without damaging your enamel. Don't use a hard-bristled toothbrush because you will wear away at your tooth enamel, which can lead to tooth decay and possibly receding gums.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three months or sooner if the bristles start to look worn.
• Brush your teeth gently in small circular motions.
• If you have sensitive teeth, use toothpaste formulated for people with sensitivity. Fluoride is also recommended to strengthen tooth enamel.
• Make sure you're brushing the insides and outsides of your teeth as well as your tongue to remove any bacteria that has built up throughout the day.
• Don't forget to floss at least once a day to also remove plaque buildup from in between the teeth.

How to Floss

When flossing, make sure to use the proper technique so that you can clean the areas in between your teeth and get the best results possible. To floss properly, follow these steps:

• Use about 18 inches of floss, and wrap it around both your middle fingers. Be sure not to wrap it around your pointer finger or the area between your thumb and index finger, as it's almost impossible to control these fingers with floss wrapped around them.
• Hold the floss tightly in both hands and gently slide it up and down between each of your teeth. Move it gently back and forth in an up-and-down motion to help remove any food particles that may have been left behind after eating a meal. Repeat this process for every tooth in your mouth until you've reached the gum line.
• When you are done, use mouthwash to remove any leftover food and plaque from your mouth. Rinse out your mouth with water to make sure that no sticky residue remains on your teeth.
• If you have any trouble using regular floss, consider using an oral irrigator instead. This device uses a stream of water to remove plaque and food from between your teeth. Some people find these devices easier to use than regular string floss.

Make flossing a part of your daily routine, like brushing your teeth. Make it a habit to floss at least once a day at the minimum. 

West Reno Dental, located in Reno, NV, is equipped with the best dentists and modern amenities that facilitate effective treatment services for patients. Dial (775) 323-4054 and book an appointment with the dentist to learn more about dental services.