Oral Health Basics: Techniques for Proper Brushing and Flossing
Posted on October 19, 2022 in Dental Health
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Maintaining a bright, healthy smile begins with the basics—proper brushing and flossing. While most of us brush and floss our teeth daily, it can be easy to make mistakes.
Learn the essential steps of effective tooth brushing and flossing and better habits to protect your oral health.
Consistent brushing and flossing lead to good health
Proper brushing and flossing play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and our overall well-being. Regular and effective brushing and flossing help prevent issues such as cavities, gum disease and bad breath.
Additionally, poor oral hygiene has been associated with several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory illness. The inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease might play a role in some cardiovascular diseases as well, as these bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.
How to brush your teeth correctly
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that everyone brush their teeth twice a day. Having the proper technique enhances your oral hygiene routine as well.
You will need these brushing materials:
Once you have your materials, follow this step-by-step process to brush your teeth.
- Start with a wet toothbrush.
- Apply a small amount of fluoride toothpaste to your toothbrush.
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle.
- Insert the toothbrush into your mouth and begin gently brushing back and forth on your teeth for a total of two minutes.
- Spit toothpaste out and rinse down the sink. Make sure not to swallow the toothpaste.
- Repeat this process twice a day.
Replacing your toothbrush
It's important to replace your toothbrush regularly because old toothbrushes become ineffective at cleaning your teeth and gums. Switch out your toothbrush or toothbrush head, if you use an electric toothbrush, every three to four months.
Learn more about the differences between a standard toothbrush and an electric toothbrush here.
How to floss correctly
Flossing helps remove plaque from hard to reach areas like between teeth and under the gumline. Daily flossing helps prevent gum disease and reduces the risk of cavities.
Here are some tips and techniques for effective flossing:
- Start with about 18 inches of floss.
- Wrap the floss around one of your middle fingers, with the rest of the floss wrapped around your other middle finger.
- Wrap the floss until you create about a 1-inch gap with the floss tightly held between your thumbs and pointer fingers.
- Gently slide the floss between your teeth – curving it in a C-shape around each tooth.
- Adjust the floss between your fingers before moving to the next tooth, so there’s a fresh section to clean with.
- Repeat this process for every tooth in your mouth.
- Floss once a day.
Make sure that you don’t floss too hard and use new floss every time you clean your teeth.
Proper brushing and flossing protect your teeth
Although it might seem like a good idea to brush your teeth aggressively, harsh brushing or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause the tooth enamel to wear down and the gums to recede. This can lead to problems for your oral health, so remember to be gentle, yet firm while brushing your teeth.
When it comes to flossing, it’s important to take note of any bleeding. Some bleeding is normal and can be a sign that you need to floss more often. However, if the bleeding doesn’t stop or if you bleed every time you floss, it could be a sign of a more serious problem like gum disease. Be sure to talk to your dentist if you are concerned.
Even if you’re brushing and flossing correctly, it’s important to visit your dentist every six months to have your mouth inspected for any developing oral health concerns.
*Updated July 2024