BRUSHING & FLOSSING
Fredericksburg Dental Care
At Southpoint Quality Dental, we offer our patients the very best dental care in Fredericksburg and Stafford, but in order to maintain healthy teeth, you have to start at home with good oral hygiene. Our dentist, Dr. Joshua Swanson believes in the importance of proper brushing and flossing techniques, and makes sure that all of his patients know exactly how to best maintain a healthy, long-lasting smile.
Proper Brushing Technique
The best teeth brushing technique begins with a quality toothbrush. When you’re shopping for a new brush, look for one with soft bristles, so your teeth and gums aren’t damaged. For a manual brush, we recommend the Colgate slim soft brush. Electric tooth brushes are an even better option as many studies show they are more effective than manual brushes. Feel free to ask your hygienist or dentist what they recommend for you. Once you’ve found the perfect brush, you can start brushing those pearly whites 3-4 times a day in 4 easy steps:
- Step 1: Start at the outside of your teeth and brush at a straight angle in circular motions
- Step 2: Finish the outside of your teeth by angling the toothbrush to clean under the gums, angle up for upper row of teeth and down for lower row of teeth
- Step 3: Brush the chewing surface of both rows of teeth in a back and forth motion
- Step 4: Angle your toothbrush to clean the insides of your upper and lower teeth
It is important to remember to replace your toothbrush every three months, or once the bristles begin to fray, whichever comes first.
Proper Flossing Technique
Flossing is one of the most important and yet most overlooked aspects of at-home oral care. Your toothbrush can’t reach the space between your teeth, so it is important to floss every day to remove leftover food particles from your teeth. Flossing at least once a day, especially before bed, can do wonders for your dental health.
How To Floss:
- Step 1: Get about 18 inches of floss from the dispenser
- Step 2: Wrap the majority of the floss around your middle fingers, leaving a couple of inches pulled tightly
- Step 3: Using your index finger and thumb, guide the floss between teeth, reaching just below the gum line to reach all of those food particles and plaque
- Step 4: Repeat the steps above to clean between all teeth, gradually unwrapping clean floss as you go
Don’t worry if your gums bleed a bit when you first start to floss. If the bleeding continues for longer than a week, make sure to let Dr. Swanson know during your next visit! Other options to flossing include using a toothpick or shower flosser. Ask your doctor or hygienist to discuss what may be the best option for you.
Visit Southpoint Quality Dental Today!
Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is key to preserving that healthy smile. If you have any questions about how to better take care of your teeth, we would be happy to show you the proper techniques during your next visit. Please contact our office, or use our online form to request an appointment. We are located in Fredericksburg and Stafford and serve the surrounding cities of Spotsylvania, Massaponax and more. We look forward to seeing you soon!