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Your Guide to Brushing and Flossing Properly

Writer's picture: Dr. DarianDr. Darian

January 13, 2025

Winning Smiles Dentistry

You might be brushing your teeth every day but are you doing it properly? Here’s how to brush and floss, so the process is as effective as possible.


Brushing your teeth properly and consistently is the best way to keep tooth decay and plaque buildup at bay. Your teeth rely on you to care for them daily, so don’t disappoint! You may be spending every morning brushing your teeth, but are you sure you are doing it right? Here is how to brush your teeth properly, followed by flossing, so the process is as effective as possible:


Things to Consider:

  • Always use toothpaste with fluoride to help protect your teeth

  • Use a soft or medium bristled toothbrush; your enamel needs to be cleaned gently 

  • Brush for 2 minutes twice a day! That’s just a total of 4 minutes a day that will make a world of difference to your dental hygiene


Brushing:


  • Start by thinking of your mouth as four separate sections. Upper left, lower left, upper right, and lower right. You want to spend at least 30 seconds on each of these sections. 

  • Start by choosing a section and then position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle right against the gum line. 

  • Use short strokes and move your toothbrush back and forth, so you are covering all the teeth, including the ones all the way at the back. 

  • Move your toothbrush onto the chewing surface; hold it flat and move back and forth.

  • When you get to the front section of your teeth, move your toothbrush up and down rather than side to side.

  • Do not forget to brush the inside surfaces of your teeth. For the back teeth, open your mouth wide, and use back and forth motions. For the front teeth, use your toothbrush vertically and gently brush up and down while being extra cautious near the gums. 

  • Finally, brush your tongue back and forth with large strokes. 

  • Rinse and floss.


Flossing:


  • Use a long piece of floss, and hold it taut with both hands tightening it using your thumbs.

  • Use the floss to remove particles and food by pushing it up between your teeth and pressing against the inner surface and dragging it down. 

  • Clean both the left and right surfaces of each tooth.

  • Do not push the floss against your gums, or you could injure yourself.


If you have any questions or concerns regarding your brushing or flossing techniques, you should get in touch with your dental hygienist. 

 

Dr. Darian, D.D.S. of Winning Smiles Dentistry, is here to provide you with the best treatment and advice possible. To make a reservation or to learn more about our dental services, please contact us at (623) 777-7942. Alternatively, you can visit us at your nearest location to see the dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix.

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