Brushing
Brushing should be done at least twice a day for two minutes. Based on your individual needs, our staff will make a recommendation on whether to use a manual or electric toothbrush. It is very important to remember the tooth is 3 dimensional, and it must be brushed on the top, and both sides all the way down to the gum line. The bristles of the toothbrush (manual or electric) should be angled to reach into the gum line, as this is where the most plaque sits.
Flossing
Flossing should be completed at least one time per day. The best flossing technique is to wrap the floss around two fingers and follow a “C”shape in order to hug the tooth into the gums. This will allow you to clean the tooth, while not damaging the gum tissue. The use of a floss holder can be used if dexterity is a problem. If you have a dental bridge, a floss threader or “orthodontic floss” should be used to guide the floss under the bridge.
Rubber Tips
Rubber tips may be recommended in order to help to keep your gums healthy and clean at the gum line. The rubber tip is angled toward the gum line and rubbed in a back and forth motion. This massages the gums and stimulates health. This should be completed after brushing and flossing.

Mouth Rinse
A fluoride mouth rinse may be recommended in order to help in preventing tooth and root decay. Other mouth rinses may be used but should not be used as a substitute for flossing and brushing.

Perio-Aid
The Perio-Aid is a handle with toothpicks on both ends. The angle and length of the toothpick helps to remove plaque from in and around the gums.

Prevident
Prevident toothpaste may be recommended in order to strengthen the tooth, and prevent decay. It can also help to decrease sensitivity due to exposed roots following periodontal bone loss. Prevident should be used only at night. When brushing with Prevident, it is important not to rinse or drink water following brushing; doing so will rinse the paste of the teeth.
Proxy Brushes
Proxy brushes are used to clean the spaces between teeth at the gum line. Proxy brushes are shaped like a Christmas tree or a bottle brush, and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the size of the space in-between the teeth. Proxy brushes can be used at any time throughout the day and are very helpful in removing food. They should be used in conjunction with your dental floss and not as a substitute.