Tips to Improve Your Brushing and Flossing Habits

Brushing and flossing are the most basic steps in taking care of your oral health. They may seem simple enough, but like anything else, they are skills that we have to learn and practice to be able to successfully keep our mouths clean. Our goal at All Smiles Dental Care is to assist you in maintaining healthy teeth and gums in Phoenix. To help you do this, here are a few tips by the dentist in 85018 that will help you improve your brushing and flossing habits:

How often should I brush and floss?

A recommendation from the Phoenix dentist is that you should brush twice a day (suggested in the morning and before bed) for at least two minutes at a time. If you have a history of dental disease, you may need to brush more frequently. Be careful not to brush too hard – it doesn’t take much pressure to remove plaque, and being too aggressive can damage the teeth and gums.

When should I change my toothbrush?

Toothbrushes should be switched out about every three months. If you notice that the bristles have become worn or splayed, it’s time to get a new brush (soft bristles are recommended).

What kind of toothpaste should I use?

A toothpaste that contains fluoride is the most beneficial to your oral health. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen enamel. It’s also helpful to look for a toothpaste that has an anti-tartar agent to inhibit the formation of the hardened plaque deposits.

What if I have tooth sensitivity?

If you notice that you are experiencing tooth sensitivity when you brush, it’s a good idea to come see us at All Smiles Dental Care and our dentist in Phoenix, AZ can determine the cause. The most common cause is gum recession, which is often the result of gum disease. This exposes the tooth roots and causes discomfort when putting pressure on the teeth or when eating hot or cold foods. You can receive treatment to address gum recession or start using a toothpaste that aids tooth sensitivity.

If you have any questions about oral hygiene practices for yourself or your family, give us a call at All Smiles Dental Care and schedule an appointment with one of our Phoenix dentist near you. We love to do what we can to improve the oral health of our patients in Phoenix.