oral hygiene

In addition to visiting your dentist for regular checkups and dental cleanings at least twice a year, it's important to maintain good oral health care at home. Brushing and flossing your teeth properly, as well as using mouth rinse, minimize your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

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In order to effectively remove cavity-causing bacteria, you should brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, with either a manual or an electric toothbrush. Many electric toothbrushes have built-in timers, but if you are using a manual toothbrush, consider keeping a timer in the bathroom to make sure you’re brushing long enough. One great option is to play a favorite song and don’t stop brushing until the song is over!

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Proper Tooth Brushing Technique

Wondering how to brush your teeth thoroughly and effectively? Follow these simple steps:

Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth and brush in a circular or elliptical motion. 

Press just firmly enough to reach between your teeth. Brushing too hard or using a sawing motion could cause your gums to recede and damage your teeth.

Start brushing at the gumline and work your way down onto the teeth, brushing a couple of teeth at a time until you cover your entire mouth. 

Make sure to brush the outside and inside of your teeth, the chewing surfaces and between teeth, as well as your tongue.

What Kind of Toothbrush Should I Use?

Your toothbrush should have a long, wide handle that allows for a firm grip, and the toothbrush head should be small enough to reach all areas of your mouth. Always make sure to use a soft-bristled brush because hard bristles can damage your teeth and gums.

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

Old toothbrushes with worn and frayed bristles are ineffective and may harbor harmful bacteria. Make sure to change your toothbrush — or brush head, if you use an electric toothbrush — every three to four months or after an illness.

What Kind of Toothpaste Should I Use?

When it comes to choosing the best toothpaste for you, it’s important to think about your unique oral health needs. Some toothpastes aim to alleviate pain associated with sensitive teeth. Some help to control plaque and tartar. Some are designed to remove stains and whiten teeth. Speak with your dentist to determine which is right for you. Always make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which fights plaque and cavities, and cleans and polishes the tooth enamel. As long as your toothpaste contains fluoride, the flavor, formula and brand do not matter. You should, however, make sure your toothpaste bears the American Dental Association seal of approval, which means its safety and effectiveness have been tested. To clean your teeth effectively, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. If you use the correct technique, this should be enough toothpaste to cover all of your teeth.

Is Flossing as Important as Brushing?

Yes. Flossing removes plaque and debris between your teeth, polishes the surfaces of the teeth, helps control bad breath and reduces your risk of gum disease. You also should floss for two or three minutes at least once a day, using an up-and-down motion and making sure to floss below the gumline.

Should I Use a Mouth Rinse?

Mouthwash, also known as mouth rinse, is an over-the-counter product that you can use to help freshen breath and prevent tooth decay. Research shows that using a germ-killing mouthwash in addition to brushing your teeth can reduce plaque and gingivitis more than brushing alone. If you want a deep and thorough clean, mouth rinses are a great option!

Contact Us for Your Dental Health Needs

At DC Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re proud to help patients maintain great oral health and a beautiful smile. With over 10 years of experience and a state-of-the-art dental practice, you can rest assured that you’re in great hands. For more information or to schedule an appointment with us, don’t hesitate to contact us today!

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For more information on oral hygiene or to schedule an appointment, call us at (202) 363-2810 or visit our contact page.

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SERVING THE WASHINGTON DC AREA SINCE 2017

At DC Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer comprehensive and personalized dental care tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care using state-of-the-art techniques and technologies. We are committed to providing safe, effective treatments that will help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile. 

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DC Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry provides patients with exceptional dental care. Our experienced dentists and staff strive to ensure that each visit is a pleasant experience. We are proud of the relationships we have established with our patients over the years and thank them for their loyalty and trust. To see what our current patients have to say about our comprehensive dental services, check out our reviews! 

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