Dental Blog
How to brush and floss properly for healthier gums
Healthy gums start at home. Most of the dental problems we see, from cavities to bleeding gums and bad breath, can be prevented with a simple daily routine done the right way. Here is how to get the most out of your toothbrush and your floss.
Brush in the morning and again before bed, and give each session a full two minutes. Use a soft bristled brush and a fluoride toothpaste, because fluoride strengthens enamel and helps to protect against decay. A pea sized amount of paste is enough for an adult.
- Hold the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gum line.
- Use short, gentle strokes and small circles instead of hard scrubbing.
- Clean the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of every tooth.
- Brush your tongue lightly to remove bacteria that cause bad breath.
Pressing too hard does not clean better. It can wear down enamel and push the gums back over time.
A toothbrush cannot reach the tight spaces between your teeth, which is where plaque often builds up first. Floss once a day. Guide the floss gently between two teeth, curve it into a C shape around one tooth, and slide it up and down just below the gum line. Use a clean section for each gap. If you find flossing difficult, interdental brushes or a water flosser are good alternatives.
Change your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles look bent or frayed. Replace it after an illness as well.
Gums that bleed, look red or swollen, or a bad taste that does not go away are early signs of gum disease. Bleeding when you floss is common when you first start, but it should settle within a week or two. If it does not, book a checkup. A professional cleaning every six months removes the hardened plaque that brushing cannot, and it helps us to spot problems early.
