PROPER BRUSHING Proper brushing helps
minimize the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, the major causes of tooth loss. Use a
soft-bristle brush and an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and food
particles. Replace your brush every three months.
On outer and inner
surfaces, brush at a 45-degree angle in short,
half-tooth-wide strokes against the gumline.
On chewingsurfaces,
hold the brush flat and brush back and forth.
On inside surfaces of front teeth,
tilt brush vertically and use gentle up and down
strokes with toe of brush.
Brush thetongue
in a back-to-front sweeping motion to remove food
particles and freshen your mouth.
Be sure to follow the special home care instructions
provided by Dr. Ortega.
PROPER FLOSSING Flossing daily removes plaque and food particles between
teeth and below the gumline.
Wrap an 18-inch strand around your middle fingers and
hold a one-inch section tightly.
Ease floss between teeth. Clean up and down several
times while curving around teeth at the gumline.
Always floss behind the last tooth. Unwind clean floss
as you proceed.
Floss around the abutment teeth of a bridge and under
artificial teeth using a floss threader.
You may experience sore or bleeding gums for the first
several days you floss. If bleeding continues after the first week of flossing, call us.
If you have trouble handling floss, ask Dr. Ortega about the use of
a floss holder, or other types of interdental cleaning aids.
Dental Cosmetix
