Brushing & Flossing

Brushing & Flossing in Rochester NY

A good oral health routine prevents cavities, controls gingivitis, and maintains a healthy smile. Brushing your teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash may all seem like fairly straightforward routines, but you'd be surprised how many people don't do these things on a daily basis. That's why we at Dr. David K Skeels emphasize the importance of brushing and flossing to our Rochester, NY patients.

Brushing Your Teeth

Brush your teeth twice a day--once in the morning and once before going to bed at night.
  • Angle your brush approximately 45 degrees from your gums.
  • Brush gently, using swirling motions across your teeth. Work from the front of your mouth to the back. 
  • Brush the outside of your teeth (what's against your cheeks), the inside of your teeth (what's against your teeth), and the chewing surfaces.
  • Remove bacteria and freshen your breath by brushing your tongue surface thoroughly.
  • Repeat this routine for two minutes each time before spitting.
Make sure your toothbrush fits comfortably in your mouth so it can reach every tooth. Change your toothbrush whenever the bristles fray--once every three or four months. If you have questions about the right tools for brushing and flossing, our Rochester, NY staff can help.

Flossing

Floss after every time you brush.
  • Use about eighteen inches of floss. Wrap the floss around your middle finger on each hand and pinch it between your thumb and pointer finger.
  • Guide floss between teeth using thumbs for upper teeth and pointer fingers for lower teeth.
  • Using a side-to-side and up-down motion, slide the floss between each tooth. Make sure the floss contours to each tooth's side.
  • Use a clean portion of floss for each tooth.
Flossing works with waxed and unwaxed floss, as well as spongy floss and dental tape. If you have any missing teeth or gaps, floss those gum areas as well.

If you have children, supervise their habits to ensure they learn proper brushing and flossing. Our Rochester, NY dentists can also provide your child with simple instructions.

Using Mouthwash

Every time you brush and floss, end the routine with mouthwash. Mouthwash can specifically combat anything from bad breath to gingivitis. 
Find one that best fits yours and your family's needs.
  • Pour 20 milliliters, or 4 teaspoons, of mouthwash into a cup.
  • Empty the entire non-diluted solution into your mouth.
  • Swish the solution around in your mouth for a full 30 seconds.
  • Gargle the solution as you rinse.
  • Spit out the solution into the sink.

Additional Questions?

For any further questions about brushing and flossing, call our Rochester, NY office at (585) 467- 7000.

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