WatchOral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing the right way — your daily defense

Good oral hygiene is the single most important thing you can do for your teeth and gums. Done right, two minutes of brushing and a minute of flossing each day prevents cavities, controls gum disease, and adds years to the life of your natural teeth. Done casually or incorrectly, it leaves plaque behind to do its damage.

This video shows both techniques in detail. For brushing: tilt the bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline, use small circular sweeping motions, and focus on one or two teeth at a time for two full minutes. Don't forget the inside surfaces and the chewing surfaces — that's where most people miss spots.

For flossing, the key is the C-shape: curve the floss around each tooth and gently move it up and down a few times below the gumline. Snapping the floss straight up and down doesn't actually clean the surface where plaque builds up. Both should be done every day — and at every cleaning, our hygienists will let you know how your home care is working.

If you have questions about which brush, toothpaste, or technique is right for you, ask at your next visit to Brammeier Dental of Naperville. We're happy to demonstrate one-on-one — small adjustments can make a big difference.

Read the video transcript