Oral Hygiene

How to Brush

Toothbrushing twice daily is recommended.

We recommend the use of professional quality electric toothbrushes and have found the Braun Oral-B to have the best scientific support. Fundamental to the use of electric or manual toothbrushes is the consistency, quality and duration of your efforts. Soft bristle brushes are best to avoid unnecessary abrasion of the periodontal tissues and teeth.  The technology in the Oral-B brush optimally addresses all of these factors.

Angulation of the toothbrush bristles at approximately a 45° angle to the teeth is most appropriate. If using a manual toothbrush, gently move the brush in a circular motion over the front and back surfaces of all teeth. To clean the surfaces behind the upper and lower front teeth, holding the brush vertically may make it easier. Remember to also clean the biting surfaces of your teeth with short gentle strokes. In general, brushing should not be painful. Two minutes of brushing twice daily with gentle strokes is better than aggressive brushing for a shorter duration.

Electric toothbrushes vary in their motions and should be used as directed by the manufacturer. We dispense Braun Oral-B electric toothbrushes in our office and remain available to answer any specific questions.  We encourage you to bring your toothbrush to visits if we can help you utilize it more effectively.

How to Floss

Flossing is essential to reach all the surfaces of your teeth. However, it is important to develop the proper technique. Start with a piece of floss about 18" long and lightly wrap most of the floss around either the pointer or middle finger of each hand.

Hold the floss tightly between the finger and thumb and gently insert the floss between the teeth. Bring the floss to the gum line and then curve it into a C-shape against one tooth. Gently move the floss up and down (extending below the gum line) to remove the plaque accumulated. Remember there are two tooth surfaces to be cleaned between each space. Re-orientation of the floss in C-shape against the other surface with repetition of the same motion should occur before removing the floss. Never use a “sawing” back and forth motion as this is ineffective and may actually damage the gums. Do not forget to floss the backside of the last tooth in each arch.

Oral Rinses

Mouth rinses do not replace brushing or flossing. Certain brands have more scientific support and may be a helpful adjunct in maintaining good oral health. To this end we suggest the use of the Crest Pro-Health line as a daily rinse. However, other unique options may be helpful and we always suggest the best product for your individual care.