Brushing and flossing are two of the most important elements of good oral hygiene. However, even if you do these habits regularly, you may be making some mistakes that get in the way of its effectiveness. That’s why we’re sharing these dos and don’ts to improve your daily routine. By following our tips, you’ll keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your life. 

DO: 

  • Brush twice daily for 2 minutes each time. Keep a consistent routine, such as brushing in the morning and right before bed, for an effective cleaning
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for a gentle cleaning. Hard bristles can damage enamel.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three to four months when bristles appear frayed. 
  • Use a toothpaste with fluoride to protect against cavities and strengthen your enamel.
  • Brush all sides of your teeth and make sure you brush your tongue.
  • Floss once daily, gently curving the floss around each tooth to remove plaque between teeth and at the gumline.
  • Choose waxed floss or a floss pick if regular floss is difficult to manipulate.

DON’T: 

  • Brush right after eating acidic foods. This can remove more softened enamel. Wait 30–60 minutes.
  • Scrub aggressively with a hard grip or back-and-forth sawing motion. Use light pressure and gentle circles.
  • Ignore your toothbrush; instead, rinse thoroughly after use and store it upright to dry.
  • Try to floss all your teeth with the same section of floss. Get at least an 18-inch portion of floss, giving each tooth its own section.
  • Snap floss quickly between tight teeth. Ease it gently down the side of each tooth.
  • Rinse with water immediately after brushing. Let toothpaste stay on your teeth for a bit 
  • before rinsing.

Proper technique is key for brushing and flossing to effectively disrupt plaque and bacteria. Be mindful of pressure and direction, and take time to clean thoroughly twice a day. Good habits will pay off with improved dental checkups! 

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups 

Even if you brush and floss perfectly at home, you still need to maintain regular checkup appointments. Dental cleanings and exams are an important part of what keeps your mouth healthy.

During your exam, we can spot problems between teeth and below the gumline that you can’t reach just by brushing and flossing. We check for signs of decay, infection, or other issues. Any concerning areas we spot will be much easier to resolve when caught early at a dental visit, rather than waiting until you have severe symptoms. 

During dental cleanings, your hygienist will remove stubborn calculus deposits that simple home care can’t tackle. They will polish away staining for brighter and healthier teeth.

Make sure to schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups every 6 months, even if you are diligent about daily hygiene. These visits are key for preventing problems, protecting your oral health, and keeping your smile looking its best!

Call Butte Family Dental today at 406-565-4458 or schedule online to schedule an appointment in Butte, MT.