BRUSHING AND FLOSSING
In order to keep up with good oral care regardless of whether or not you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, you will need to stay vigilant and continue brushing and flossing in the proper way to prevent oral health issues from occurring. On this page will explore the procedures for brushing and flossing so that you can successfully maintain your good oral health.
Flossing
Regular daily flossing is important because plaque can build up and harden in just a 24 to 36 hour period and this type of caked on debris called tartar can only be removed with professional cleaning. If you are able to floss at least once a day you can have much better oral health and remove a lot of the bacteria that can be found in your mouth each day without having to worry about it becoming a problem. Click here for more flossing techniques AAO – Brushing And Flossing While Wearing Braces.
The steps involved for good flossing:
- Measure out a length of floss that is the same length as the base of your hand all the way up to your shoulder.
- Wrap the floss around your index or middle fingers leaving only 2 inches or so between your hands. This will ensure that the floss is strung tightly and you have a good grip.
- Push the tight floss between your teeth and pulling into a curve around the base of your tooth wrapping it gently under the line of your gums. Wipe the floss upward from its base all the way up to the tip of your teeth several times.
- Be sure to repeat this step on both sides of every tooth in your mouth including your back molars. Be sure to rotate out the floss as it becomes worn so that it can continue to pick up new food particles.
- Brush your teeth after you floss so that you can remove any excess particles from your gums and teeth.
It may take some time before you can floss comfortably without any bleeding or discomfort. Bleeding will usually stop after a couple days of regular flossing but if it does not it’s very important that you speak to your dentist right away.
Brushing
Regular brushing is important to removing the bacteria and preventing issues like tooth decay and plaque buildup. If you can it’s very important to brush after every meal and to always brush your teeth before you go to bed. If you are able to brush your teeth at least once just three or four times a day you should be able to prevent a lot of oral health issues from occurring.
Steps for brushing your teeth:
- Brush your teeth at an angle of 45° and make sure that the focus of pressure on your teeth is at the gum line. Use a circular motion and try not to force too much pressure against your teeth. Too much pressure with brushing can result in receding gums.
- Make sure to clean the surface of each tooth including each side.
- Try to reverse the pattern that you brush your teeth once in a while so that you can get any spots you may have missed.
A soft toothbrush with bristles that are rounded will give you the best results in cleaning your teeth. Dr. Nguyen or your dentist will be able to recommend the right toothbrush that will clean best for you as always it’s important to find a toothbrush that can easily reach all the way to the back of your teeth and allow you to brush each tooth with care. Make sure that you replace your toothbrush at least every three months as well.
Brushing & Flossing