Posted on June 18, 2018
Although your daily brushing and flossing routine has probably become second nature, it doesn't hurt to have a refresher course now and then, just to tighten up your technique and to make sure that you are in fact, giving yourself the best oral care possible. Let's take a moment to “brush up” on the basics of dental hygiene.
Your toothbrush should have soft bristles and a head that is small enough to reach every part of your mouth. When a toothbrush is three months old or more; or if the bristles are worn or flattened, it is time for a new one.
You may have been brushing your teeth for a long time, but have you been brushing them long enough? To do a good job of brushing, you should spend at least two minutes, twice a day scrubbing your teeth. While it is easy to brush the fronts of your teeth, don't forget the backs and the biting and chewing surfaces. While you have your brush handy, brush your tongue since it harbors bacteria that causes bad breath. Start by brushing the back of your tongue and work your way forward.
It doesn't matter if you brush or floss first, as long as you do a thorough job of both. Start with 18 inches of floss. Wrap most of it around each middle finger, and hold one to two inches between your thumbs and forefingers. When you floss, curve the floss around each tooth, start below the gumline and then floss away from your gums. Start with your back teeth and work your way forward, using a fresh section floss for each tooth. Dispose of the floss when you are finished.
If you have questions about your oral hygiene routine or if it is time for you regular cleaning and exam, our dentist, Dr. William Forero will be happy to visit with you. If you live in the Coral Springs, Florida, area and would like to make an appointment at William Forero DMD, PA, call 954-752-4901 today for an appointment.
