How to Brush & Floss Correctly: Better Dental Care at Home

What you do at home every day has a major effect on the health of your teeth and gums. Good brushing and cleaning between your teeth help remove plaque, protect your gums and reduce your risk of cavities and other dental problems.

How Should I Brush My Teeth?

Good brushing is about more than moving a toothbrush quickly across your teeth. You want to clean the outer, inner and chewing surfaces while also paying attention to the area where the teeth meet the gums.

A simple brushing routine includes:

How Long Should I Brush?

A good goal is about two minutes each time you brush. That gives you enough time to work systematically around your mouth instead of missing areas because you’re rushing.

Try dividing your mouth into sections and spending time on each one. Don’t forget the backs of the last teeth or the inside surfaces of your front teeth—both are easy areas to miss.

Is an Electric Toothbrush Better?

Both manual and powered toothbrushes can clean teeth effectively when used correctly. Some patients find an electric toothbrush easier to use consistently, particularly if the brush includes features such as a timer or pressure sensor.

The best toothbrush is one that you can use comfortably and thoroughly every day.

If you’re not sure whether you’re brushing effectively, bring your toothbrush or ask your dental hygienist at your next visit. Small adjustments in technique can make a meaningful difference.

How Do I Floss Correctly?

Your toothbrush cannot effectively clean every surface between your teeth. Cleaning between the teeth helps remove plaque and food debris from areas a toothbrush may not reach.

When using traditional dental floss:

What If I Have Trouble Flossing?

Traditional string floss isn’t the only way to clean between teeth.

Depending on the spacing between your teeth, your dexterity, dental restorations and gum health, Dr. Chin or your dental hygienist may recommend another option such as floss holders, interdental brushes or a water flosser.

The important thing is finding a method that cleans between your teeth effectively and that you can realistically make part of your daily routine.

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss?

Bleeding gums can occur when gum tissue is inflamed, particularly if plaque has been accumulating around or between the teeth. Starting to clean an area that hasn’t been cleaned consistently can sometimes make the bleeding more noticeable at first.

But bleeding shouldn’t simply be ignored. If your gums bleed frequently, are swollen or tender, or continue bleeding despite consistent home care, let us know. Dr. Chin and your dental hygienist can evaluate your gums for signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease.

Do I Need Mouthwash?

Mouthwash can be useful for some people, but it doesn’t replace brushing and cleaning between the teeth.

Different rinses are designed for different purposes. Some contain fluoride, while others may be recommended for specific oral-health needs.

If you’re considering a mouth rinse because of cavities, gum problems, dry mouth or another concern, ask Dr. Chin or your dental hygienist which type, if any, makes sense for you.

Your Home-Care Routine Should Fit Your Mouth

There isn’t one perfect dental-care routine for every person.

Crowded teeth, bridges, implants, braces, gum recession, periodontal disease and other dental conditions can change which areas are difficult to clean and which tools work best.

At your dental visits, Dr. Chin and your dental hygienist can help identify areas you’re missing and recommend a home-care routine based on your teeth and gums.