By, Dr Susan Beatrice J, Associate Dentist, Ivory Smiles Dental Clinic
Brushing and flossing are the best friends for keeping your mouth clean and healthy. But are we really doing it the right way? Although it seems simple, learning the correct method is very important to get rid of plaque, stop cavities and gum problems, and keep your smile bright and healthy. Here is a Full Guide Packed With Oral Hygiene Tips. As a Leading Dental Clinic In Bengaluru, we always strive to See the Full Smile of Our Patients.
MASTERING THE ART OF BRUSHING AND FLOSSING, A CRUCIAL PART OF ORAL HYGIENE
Choose The Right Tools:-
Toothbrush – Pick a soft-bristled toothbrush that is gentle on your teeth and gums. Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, it should help you reach all parts of your mouth easily.
Toothpaste – Always pick a toothpaste that has fluoride. A small amount, like the size of a pea, is enough to clean and strengthen your teeth.
The Golden Rules Of Technique:-
Angle – Keep your brush angled at roughly 45 degrees against the gums for effective cleaning. This position lets the bristles reach the area where the tooth meets the gum, which is where plaque often builds up.
Motion – Use gentle, short circular strokes. On the chewing surfaces, use short back-and-forth motions. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can harm your gums and tooth enamel. Use a light touch, like massaging your gums and teeth.
Surfaces – Make sure you clean all sides of your teeth
– Outer Surfaces ( Towards the Cheeks)
– Inner Surfaces ( Towards the Chin)
– Chewing Surfaces
Tongue – Gently brush or scrape your tongue to get rid of bacteria and freshen your breath.
The Two Minute Rule, Time it Right:-
Duration – The 2×2 rule is very important in keeping your mouth healthy. Clean your teeth twice a day, spending about two minutes each time. Many people rush through this step, so make sure you take your time.
Method – To make brushing easier, divide your mouth into four sections: upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. Spend 30 seconds on each section, and you’ll easily reach the two-minute mark. Most electric toothbrushes have built-in timers to help you stay on track.
When to brush – Brush after breakfast and before going to bed. Avoid brushing right after eating acidic foods or drinks, as they soften your enamel, and brushing right away can wear it down.
Brushing Maintenance:-
Replace your toothbrush – It’s best to replace your toothbrush every few months, or sooner if you notice the bristles starting to bend or wear.
Rinse after brushing – After brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, spit out the excess foam but avoid rinsing your mouth immediately. Allowing a small amount of fluoride to remain on your teeth for a few minutes strengthens enamel and boosts protection against cavities.
The Critical Step of Flossing: An Underestimated Part Of Oral Hygiene
Your toothbrush cannot reach every crevice, especially between teeth or under the gumline. Flossing clears away leftover food particles and plaque from these hard-to-reach areas, helping to prevent decay and gum irritation.
Use The Right Amount:–
Length – Cut about 45 cm (roughly 18 inches) of floss – enough to use a clean segment for each tooth.
Grip – Wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand, and a small portion around the middle finger of the other. Hold the floss taut with your thumbs and index fingers to guide it accurately between your teeth.
Perfecting the technique:-
Gentle Guidance – Carefully ease the floss between your teeth with a gentle back-and-forth movement instead of snapping it down, which can irritate the gums.
Motion – Shape the floss into a ‘C’ around one tooth and gently move it up and down, cleaning just beneath the gumline. Repeat the process on the neighbouring tooth before moving on.
Fresh section – Unwind a fresh section of the floss before moving to the next tooth. And from one finger and wind up the used section over the other. This prevents the bacteria from moving from one tooth to the other, Remember to include the back surfaces of your last molars these areas often get overlooked.
Floss Frequency – Aim to floss at least once a day. Doing it in the evening is especially effective because it removes food and plaque that have built up during the day.
Alternatives to String Floss:-
If you are someone who struggles with using string floss, here are some easier alternative tools you can use to floss daily.
Floss Picks – These are small, convenient plastic holders with pre-threaded floss.
Water Flossers – Excellent tool that dislodges food particles and clean your gums especially if you’re having braces or large gaps and gum diseases.
Interdental Brushes – These are tiny brushes designed to sweep the gaps around your teeth.
Also Read Our Article About 10 Causes Behind Tooth Sensitivity,
By keeping up with consistent brushing and flossing, and using techniques that suit you best, you give your teeth and gums the best chance to stay strong, healthy, and bright. When you’re uncertain about proper methods or tools, We At Ivory Smiles Dental Clinic can provide personalised guidance tailored to your oral health needs, Book Your Appointment Today !!!
