How to Properly Brush & Floss
Good oral hygiene starts at home. Brushing and flossing each day helps keep your teeth and gums healthy while preventing common issues that can lead to more serious problems later.
Benefits of consistent home care:
- Prevents cavities: Brushing removes plaque, which contains acids that can wear down enamel and lead to decay.
- Protects your gums: Flossing disrupts plaque near the gumline, lowering the risk of gum disease.
- Fresher breath: Food particles and bacteria can cause bad breath—daily cleaning helps eliminate them.
- Reduces stains: Regular brushing and flossing can minimize staining from drinks like coffee or tea.
Maintaining these habits every day is a key part of keeping your smile clean, fresh, and healthy.
How to Brush Your Teeth the Right Way
Brushing correctly does more than just polish your teeth—it helps remove plaque, prevent gum irritation, and protect your enamel.
When to brush:
- At least twice a day
- Ideally once in the morning and again before bed
- Brush for a full two minutes each time
Choosing a toothbrush:
- Soft-bristled with a small head
- Replace every 3 months or sooner if bristles are worn
- Electric brushes with rotating heads can make cleaning easier and more effective
Brushing technique:
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums
- Use small, circular motions—don’t scrub
- Clean all surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing
- Use the tip of the brush to reach behind front teeth
- Brush your tongue to reduce bacteria and improve breath
How to Floss Correctly
Flossing is essential for cleaning the tight spaces between your teeth that brushing can’t reach. Doing it the right way helps prevent gum disease, plaque buildup, and inflammation.
Why it matters:
- Removes plaque between teeth and under the gumline
- Helps reduce the depth of gum pockets
- Lowers the risk of bleeding gums and bone loss over time
How to floss step-by-step:
How to floss step-by-step:
- Use about 18 inches of floss
- Wrap each end around your middle fingers, leaving 2–3 inches between your hands
- Gently guide the floss between your teeth using a side-to-side motion
- Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth
- Slide it up and down under the gumline to clean the sides
- Avoid snapping the floss, which can irritate the gums
Helpful tip:
If traditional floss is difficult to use, try a floss holder or pick to make the process easier and more comfortable.
Helpful Reminders
Brushing and flossing don’t need to be complicated, but consistency is key. A few small adjustments to your routine can make a big difference in your oral health over time.
Keep in mind:
- Any floss you’ll use regularly is the right one
- Floss picks and holders are great alternatives if string floss is uncomfortable
- Replace your toothbrush or brush head every 3 months
- Don’t skip brushing your tongue—it helps reduce bacteria and keeps your breath fresh
- If you’re unsure about your technique, ask your dental hygienist for feedback during your next visit
Brushing and flossing don’t need to be complicated, but consistency is key. A few small adjustments to your routine can make a big difference in your oral health over time.
