It is highly recommended that you visit your dentist in Denver for periodic cleanings and routine checkups. During your visit, one of our doctors or a skilled hygienist will explain to you how to properly brush and floss your teeth. At Gentle Smiles of Colorado, we also recommend that you brush and floss correctly a minimum of 2 times per day.
We are not only Denver cosmetic dentists. We also practice general dentistry, including the treatment of periodontal disease. We address tooth decay, gum recession, bone loss, and gingivitis. All of these conditions can benefit from proper brushing and flossing. Here are some tips for effectively cleaning your teeth at home.
How to Brush Your Teeth
Our first rule of thumb is to use a soft bristle toothbrush and avoid being overly aggressive. Focus on brushing the front, back, and bite surfaces of the teeth using a gentle circular motion. This can be done with an electric toothbrush as well.
The American Dental Association advocates for brushing your teeth for a minimum of 2 minutes twice a day. Our Denver dentists further suggest that you gently brush the roof of your mouth and the surface of your tongue for complete oral cavity cleaning.
We may recommend a sugar-free fluoride toothpaste. Sugar is detrimental to teeth and gums and can cause tooth decay. Be sure to spit out all of the toothpaste and rinse your mouth thoroughly with clean water.
Finally, it is advised that you replace your toothbrush or electric toothbrush rotating head every 3 months to prevent the spread of bacteria and to make sure the bristles have not deteriorated.
Proper Flossing Technique
Flossing is very important for removing bacteria and plaque buildup between the teeth that the brush bristles can’t reach. Our dentists in Denver recommend that you floss immediately after you brush and rinse as part of your daily oral hygiene routine.
Generally, you will use approximately 18 inches of clean floss. Wrap the ends of the string around your index fingers. Then, place the floss in-between two teeth down to the gum line using a back-and-forth motion.
Curve the floss into a C shape so that it rests against one tooth surface. Slide the floss up and down about 2 or 3 times. Curve the floss in the opposite direction to meet the adjacent tooth surface and floss up and down a couple more times. Repeat this until you have flossed between and behind all the teeth. Rinse your mouth to flush out any loosened matter.
Alternatively, you can floss your teeth with a disposable implement referred to as a flosser. This tool is a small string of floss attached to a handle for easy use with one hand.
Contact Information
Proper daily brushing and flossing are essential for good dental hygiene. Additionally, you will benefit from regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleanings. Our experienced dentists in Denver and the surrounding areas can address all of your dental needs, including periodontics and cosmetic dentistry. Our Gentle Smiles of Colorado offices are located in Denver, Golden, & Wheat Ridge. Please contact us online or give us a call to set up your consultation. Our phone numbers are:
- Denver (303) 756-2770
- Golden (303) 278-2800
- Wheat Ridge (303) 425-5100