Proper brushing and flossing play are very important to maintaining a good oral hygiene. While professional dental cleanings twice each year will help keep your teeth free of plaque and tartar, a consistent and quality home care routine is just as important to your oral health.

By brushing and flossing your teeth properly and regularly, you can prevent the build up of plaque and bacteria, thereby preventing the development of disease while also maintaining a bright white smile.

Regular tooth brushing and flossing can help to prevent:

• Tooth decay: Tooth decay is caused by acids contained in plaque.  The acids erode tooth enamel and can lead to the formation of a defect or cavity on the tooth's surface.  While tooth decay is one of the main causes of tooth death and tooth loss, it can be prevented with a good home oral hygiene routine and regular dental checkups.
• Periodontal disease:  Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease which affects the gums and bone surrounding the teeth.  Caused by toxins found in plaque, periodontal disease can lead to bone loss when left untreated.  Periodontal disease can also lead to health problems in other parts of the body aside from the mouth.  Preventing the build up of plaque and tartar with regular tooth brushing and flossing will go a long way in the prevention of periodontal disease.
• Halitosis (bad breath):  Halitosis is frequently caused by food debris which remains on or between the teeth, leading to the development of an unpleasant odor.  By removing food particles with regular brushing and flossing, you will be able to maintain fresh breath and a healthy mouth.
• Tooth staining and discoloration:  There are several different lifestyle factors that can lead to the staining or discoloration of teeth.  For example, smoking and drinking coffee can cause teeth to turn yellow.  Regular tooth brushing and flossing helps to remove staining agents and will reduce the likelihood of the discoloration becoming permanent.

The Proper Way to Brush

In order to maintain good oral hygiene, you should brush your teeth at least twice per day.  It's especially important to ensure that you brush in the morning and before going to bed at night.  Small, soft bristled toothbrushes are the best type to use and each tooth brush should be used for no more than three months.  A toothbrush with a small head is ideal as it will be able to reach and navigate all areas of the mouth.  Soft bristles are important as they are less likely to cause gum damage.  Electric toothbrushes are also good to use, particularly ones with oscillating heads.

To brush your teeth effectively, follow these steps:

• Place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle at the point where your gums meet your teeth.
• Gently brush your teeth and gum line with circular motions, ensuring that you do not exert too much pressure on the teeth.
• Be sure to brush all tooth surfaces, including inner, outer and biting surfaces.  Back-and-forth strokes are the most effective for cleaning biting and chewing surfaces.
• Lastly, brush your tongue.  Doing so will remove bacteria and food debris, helping you to keep your mouth healthier and your breath fresh.

The Proper Way To Floss

Flossing is a great way to remove plaque and food particles from places which are hard to reach with a toothbrush, such as between teeth and beneath the gum line.  To prevent periodontal disease and to maintain healthy teeth and gums, flossing should be practiced on a daily basis.

To floss your teeth effectively, follow these steps:

• Use a length of floss that is approximately 12 to 16 inches long.
• Wrap one end around your left middle finger and the other end around your right middle finger, leaving approximately 2 or 3 inches of floss between your hands.
• Use a gentle sawing motion to ease the floss between your teeth.
• Curve the floss around each tooth and gently slide it up and down, ensuring that it reaches beneath the gum line.