Brushing and Flossing

As we ring in the New Year, we should not forget to add to our resolutions our oral health. Proper brushing and flossing are the foundation for good oral health, fresh breath and a beautiful smile. Make sure to follow the advice of your dentist and dental hygienist on top of using the best hygiene oral aids like interdental cleaners, toothbrushes and floss.
Make it a point to mention to your hygienist if your gums ever bleed while brushing or flossing. To keep a healthy mouth, it is important to brush your teeth at least 3 times a day, floss daily. Use a brush with soft bristles as hard bristles can actually harm our teeth. It can damage or erode our enamel.
Change your toothbrush at least every three months. When brushing your teeth, place bristles along the gumline at a 45-degree angle. Bristles should touch booth the tooth surface and the gumline. Gently brush the outer tooth surface of 2-3 teeth using a vibrating back and forth motion. Do the same on the inner tooth surfaces. Spend at least 2 minutes doing this to ensure that plaque and food particles are brushed away leaving a smooth surface.
Don’t forget to floss. Flossing can be done before or after brushing your teeth. It’s a matter of preference. When flossing, wind a piece of floss long enough to wrap around your middle fingers of each hand. Gently guide floss between the teeth using a zigzag motion. Contour floss around the side of the tooth.
Prevention is the key to attaining good oral health. Make sure to visit your dental professionals every 3 months to ensure that tooth decay and periodontal diseases are prevented before they even start.
For more information, please call 661-255-2545. The office is located at 27420 Tourney Rd., Suite 270 in Valencia. You can also learn more at www.kimrosendds.com.