Choosing a Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Toothbrushes and Floss

Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are important. These actions remove the sticky plaque that accumulates on our teeth. If the plaque is not removed it becomes the perfect place for bacteria to gather and begin the decay process. Flossing helps to remove any food that becomes trapped between teeth and at the gum line.

There are many types of toothbrushes on the market. It is generally recommended that you use a soft bristle brush at a 45 angle to your teeth, brushing in the direction that the teeth grow, that is: from the gum down for top teeth and from the gum up on the bottom teeth front and back, and at a horizontal angle on the biting surfaces on the molars. Floss comes in many varieties, waxed, un-waxed, tape, and in many flavors, etc. Ask your dentist which type is recommended for you.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is available in many forms: pastes, gels, drops and powders and they come in every color and flavor imaginable. Toothpaste has been formulated to eliminate decay, strengthen teeth, reduce tartar, whiten teeth, freshen breath and eliminate tooth sensitivity.