Best Practices for Brushing and Flossing

Learn to Brush and Floss at Scottsdale Perfect Smiles

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for your overall health, starting with brushing and flossing techniques. At Scottsdale Perfect Smiles, Dr. Feldhake and his dedicated dental team in Scottsdale, AZ, are here to provide you with the best practices for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

The Importance of Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene prevents tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. By brushing and flossing regularly, you remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

How to Brush Your Teeth Effectively

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

Selecting the right toothbrush is the first step. Dr. Feldhake recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth. An electric toothbrush can also be a great option as it often provides a more thorough cleaning.

Brushing Technique

1. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
2. Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
3. Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
4. Tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth.
5. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

Dr. Feldhake advises brushing for at least two minutes twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

The Role of Flossing in Oral Hygiene

Why Flossing is Important

Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gum line, areas a toothbrush can't reach. If these particles are not removed, they can lead to gum disease and cavities.

Proper Flossing Technique

1. Break off about 18 inches of dental floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand.
2. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.
3. Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.
4. When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
5. Hold the floss tightly against the tooth and gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions.
6. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth. Remember the back side of your last tooth.

Dr. Feldhake and his team recommend flossing at least once daily to maintain optimal oral hygiene.

Additional Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Using Mouthwash

Incorporating an antimicrobial mouthwash into your daily routine can help reduce plaque, prevent gingivitis, and freshen your breath. Dr. Feldhake suggests using a mouthwash that contains fluoride for added protection against tooth decay.

Regular Dental Checkups

Even with the best oral hygiene practices, regular dental checkups are essential. At Scottsdale Perfect Smiles, Dr. Feldhake and his team provide comprehensive dental care, including professional cleanings, exams, and personalized advice on maintaining oral health.

Healthy Diet

A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products can contribute to healthier teeth and gums. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks can also help prevent cavities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Brushing too hard: This can damage your gums and tooth enamel. Use a gentle, circular motion instead.
2. Not replacing your toothbrush: Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
3. Neglecting the gum line: Brush and floss along the gum line to remove plaque buildup.

Maintain Optimal Oral Health in Scottsdale, AZ

Follow these best practices for brushing and flossing to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. The team at Scottsdale Perfect Smiles, led by Dr. Feldhake, is committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health. Regular visits to our Scottsdale, AZ office and proper at-home care will ensure your teeth and gums stay in top condition. Remember, a healthy smile is a happy smile!

For personalized advice and dental care, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Feldhake and his team at Scottsdale Perfect Smiles. Your oral health is our priority, and we're here to support you every step of the way.