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 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.

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.

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 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.