Cleanings and Exams

Brushing Tips

• Use a soft to an extra soft toothbrush. 
• Position the brush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. 
• Repeatedly move the brush in a circular motion using small, gentle strokes.
• Use light pressure while putting the bristles between the teeth.
• Slow down, reduce pressure, or stop if you feel discomfort while brushing.
• Follow the above directions while cleaning the inside of the back teeth.
• Watch yourself in the mirror to make sure you clean each surface. 
• When finished, rinse vigorously to remove any plaque you might have loosened.

Flossing Tips

• Periodontal disease usually appears where your toothbrush cannot reach. 
• Flossing is a very effective way to remove plaque from hard-to-reach surfaces.
• Start with a piece of floss about 18 long. 
• Lightly wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of either hand.
• Gently insert the floss tightly between the teeth using a back-and-forth motion. 
• Do not force the floss or try to snap it into place. 
• Bring the floss to the gum line, then curve it into a C-shape against one tooth.
• Slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth until you feel light resistance.
• Move the floss up and down on the side of one tooth. 
• When you finish, rinse vigorously with water to remove plaque and food particles.
• Bleeding and soreness are normal, do not be alarmed.