Preventive Care In Monroe, WA
Brushing and flossing are two of the most important things you can do to keep your mouth healthy. Proper home hygiene will help to prevent dental caries (cavities) and periodontal disease (gum disease) by reducing the bacterial levels present in the mouth. By physically reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth and breaking apart the bacterial biofilm present in the oral cavity, brushing and flossing can prevent disease and help your smile look beautiful for years to come.
Here are a few ways you can keep your teeth and gums in good health in between visits to our Monroe dental office:
- In order to achieve the highest level of oral health, we recommend brushing at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, and flossing once a day at least.
- Use gentle pressure, not too hard or too soft, and spend at least two minutes to clean the teeth with the bristles at 45 degrees angled down towards the gum line in small circles.
- Don’t brush too hard, as applying too much force with a manual toothbrush can actually create abrasion spots (actually making little notches and wearing the tooth away). This creates sensitivity and is not effective in reducing the biofilm.
- If you really want to make a bit step in improving your home hygiene game, use an electric toothbrush. It is far more efficient at removing plaque than a manual toothbrush.
If it's been six months since your last dental checkup, then it's time to contact our practice and schedule your next appointment!
- Brushing Instructions
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Brushing: Step 1
Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.
Brushing: Step 2
Brush gently in a circular motion.
Brushing: Step 3
Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
Brushing: Step 4
Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.
- Flossing Instructions
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Flossing: Step 1
Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and the other finger takes it up as the floss is used.
Flossing: Step 2
Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.
Flossing: Step 3
Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.
Flossing: Step 4
Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.