To remove plaque, which is usually heaviest on the portion
of the tooth closest to the gum line, brushing and flossing are the
first guard against tooth decay and gum disease.
Place the toothbrush bristles at about a 45-degree angle toward
the gum tissues. With a vibrating or circular motion, the bristles
are flexed so they surround the gum tissues and the portion of the
tooth closest to the gum line.
This should be done in a systematic manner so all teeth are
brushed. Pressure should be light so the gum tissue is not damaged.
The same technique is used on the inside and on the chewing surface
of the teeth. Just the tip of the brush should be used on the back
of the upper and lower front teeth.
When cleaning with floss wrap the floss (about the length of
your forearm) around each of your middle fingers until there is
about 5 inches of floss left. The floss is gently guided into the
sulcus between the tooth and gums.
Place your index fingers on top. By combining the finger or the
thumb of each hand, there are 4 different combinations available.
This is all you need to reach anywhere in the mouth.
- The two index fingers are used to get in the back of the mouth.
- The long fingers allow posterior access more easily.
- The thumb and forefinger combination helps in the front of the mouth.
- Reversing the hands gives access to the front of the mouth.
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