Brushing And Flossing The Right Way

Every day we need to care for our smiles from home, as this helps limit plaque buildup and safeguard the teeth and gums. But are you brushing and flossing the right way? In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist talks about how to properly care for your smile, and when to see us for a checkup and cleaning.

Brushing Your Teeth

People of all ages, from babies to senior citizens, need to brush every day in the morning and again at night. For most, this should take at least two minutes each time. Be sure to choose a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent inadvertent enamel damage if you brush too hard. You can go electric or use a manual one, as long as you’re taking time to clean your teeth properly, both are appropriate. Your toothpaste selection matters too! Choosing one with fluoride helps protect the outer enamel and keep your teeth strong. Kids ages three and younger need to use a rice sized amount, and kids over the age of three and everyone else needs to use a pea-sized amount each time. Be sure you’re reaching every available surface of the teeth, too! This helps remove trapped food particles, limiting the risk of plaque buildup and cavities.

Flossing for Everyone

Flossing is critical as this removes what a toothbrush alone cannot reach, and is essential for lowering the risk of gingivitis and gum disease. This needs to happen every evening as soon as there are teeth sitting side-by-side. Take an 18-inch to 20-inch length of tape and wrap each end around your thumb, holding it tight with your index fingers. Run the tape up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line when you do in a “c” motion. Then adjust your grip to use a clean portion of the next tooth. Continue until you’ve cleaned between each one! Kids may have an easier time using a floss pick instead.

When to See the Dentist

You should also see us every six months! While brushing and flossing limit plaque buildup, they cannot remove the layers from the teeth. A dental cleaning every six months will allow us to do just that, removing the buildup and protecting smiles from bad breath, stained teeth, cavities, gum disease, and more.

Do You Have Questions About Preventive Dentistry?

We would love to help you enjoy good oral health and bright smiles for years to come. If you have any questions about how to care for your teeth and gums from home, or if you would like to schedule a consultation today, please contact Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327.