How to Properly Brush and Floss your Teeth

Brushing and flossing – we all know these are the cornerstones of oral hygiene. But are you aware there’s a right way (and several wrong ways) to go about these daily rituals? At Danforth Dental Solutions in Toronto, ON, Dr. Claudia Wood is keen on ensuring that her clients maintain oral hygiene and perfect their techniques. Here’s a deep dive into ensuring your dental care routine truly works for you.

The Basics: Getting the Right Tools

Your oral care arsenal should consist of:

1. A soft-bristled toothbrush: This ensures effective cleaning without causing enamel wear or gum irritation.
2. Fluoridated toothpaste: It aids in strengthening tooth enamel and reducing the risk of decay.
3. Dental floss or an interdental cleaner: Essential for reaching spaces a toothbrush can’t.

Mastering the Art of Brushing

Angle and Motion Matter: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Move the brush in short, tooth-wide strokes. Remember, it’s not about force; it’s about technique.

Every Surface Counts: Brush the outer surfaces, followed by the inner surfaces, and then the chewing surfaces of the teeth. For the inner surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make up-and-down strokes.

Time is of Essence: Dr. Claudia Wood recommends brushing for a full two minutes, twice daily. Consider using a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer.

Flossing: Beyond the Basics

Length Matters: Use about 18 inches of floss. Wind most of it around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two to work with.

Gentle Glide: Hold the floss tautly between thumbs and forefingers, and gently insert it between teeth. Glide the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth.

Curve for Care: Curve the floss into a “C” shape when it reaches the gumline, and slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel resistance.

Fresh Section for Each Tooth: As you move from one tooth to the next, unroll a fresh section of floss from the finger of one hand while rolling the used floss onto the finger of the other hand.

Why Technique Matters: Insights from Toronto’s Dental Expert

Improper or rushed dental care techniques can lead to plaque build-up, gum diseases, cavities, and even tooth loss. Dr. Claudia Wood, a respected figure in Toronto’s dental community, asserts that by mastering your brushing and flossing techniques, you keep your teeth healthy and boost your overall oral health, which has a ripple effect on your general health.

Taking Dental Care Beyond Home: The Danforth Difference

While a proper home care routine is pivotal, it’s complemented by regular professional cleanings and check-ups. Danforth Dental Solutions in Toronto offers a suite of services tailored to ensure that every aspect of your oral health is addressed.

Unlock Your Best Smile with Danforth Dental Solutions

Ready to elevate your dental health to the next level? Trust Toronto’s dedicated dental care provider – Danforth Dental Solutions. Dr. Claudia Wood and her team are committed to offering you personalized advice and services that ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles. To schedule an appointment, simply call us at 416-461-6516. Your smile deserves nothing but the best, and that’s what we’re here for.

Sources

1. American Dental Association. “Brushing Your Teeth”. https://www.ada.org.
2. Canadian Dental Association. “Oral Care”. https://www.cda-adc.ca.
3. Mayo Clinic. “Oral Health: Brush up on Dental Care Basics”. https://www.mayoclinic.org.