Tooth Brushing and Flossing

The best way of oral care is to brush and floss twice a day.

This ensures that the plaque accumulated on the teeth and gums is cleaned. Dental plaque produces acids and toxins that can damage teeth and gums. Using a mouthwash can also help fight dental plaque. You can consult your dentist about the selection.

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes twice a day. Pay special attention to the posterior teeth as there may be more dental plaque on these teeth.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. While brushing your teeth, apply soft strokes to avoid wearing down your gums and teeth.

• Change your toothbrush every 3 months. The worn bristles of your toothbrush will clean more dental plaque.

• Brush your tongue to freshen your breath. Brush from back to front with a gentle rubbing motion.

Are You Holding Your Toothbrush Correctly? Here are some tips :

Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Brush 2 or 3 teeth at a time. Move the toothbrush from the gums to the tips of the teeth.
Hold the toothbrush upright to clean behind your upper and lower front teeth. Use gentle up and down strokes with the tip of your toothbrush.

Using dental floss helps maintain the health of teeth and gums. Using dental floss daily removes dental plaque above the gumline and between the teeth.

Follow these steps to use dental floss correctly:

• Wrap floss around your middle fingers.
• Use your thumb and middle finger to guide the floss between your teeth.
• Thread the floss around the sides of each tooth to form a "C" shape. This way, you can place the floss between your teeth and gums.
• Check your gums in the mirror while flossing. Your gums should be tight and pink. Visit your dentist if it is red, swollen or bleeding.
• Do not give up flossing if your gums bleed. Using dental floss makes your gums healthier and helps stop bleeding.