Maintaining good oral hygiene through proper brushing and flossing is essential to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. This simple yet effective routine helps prevent dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, bad breath and tooth discoloration. Our dentist and team are here to guide you on the best practices for brushing and flossing to ensure your smile stays bright and healthy.
How to Brush
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with an ADA-approved toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste is fundamental. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, and remember to replace it every three months. An electric toothbrush can also be a great investment, as it often provides a more thorough cleaning.
When brushing your teeth, follow these steps:
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to where your gums and teeth meet.
- Brush every surface of your teeth — the front, back and chewing surfaces.
- Use small, circular motions to gently clean the front and back surfaces of your teeth.
- Use back-and-forth motions to brush the chewing surfaces.
- Avoid scrubbing or applying too much pressure, as this can damage your gums and enamel.
- Do not forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
How to Floss
Flossing is crucial for removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth and below the gumline, areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. This helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
To floss effectively, follow these instructions:
- Use a piece of floss about 18 inches long.
- Wrap each end of the floss around your middle fingers, leaving a couple of inches between your hands.
- Gently insert the floss between your teeth, moving toward the gumline.
- Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth and move it up and down to clean the sides of each tooth.
- Avoid snapping or popping the floss in and out, which can injure your gums.
If you have any questions about brushing or flossing, please reach out to our dental practice in Boise, Idaho, at 208-939-1700 and speak with our team. We will be happy to provide personalized advice, recommend specific oral hygiene products to meet your needs and help you schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory Davis at State Street Dental.