We brush our teeth because it's the best way to remove harmful plaque - a thin, sticky film of bacteria - from teeth and gums.

What is the proper tooth brushing technique?

Because every mouth is different, there is more than one technique of brushing that has proven to be effective. Deciding which technique is most appropriate for you depends largely on your teeth position and gum condition. Your Trillium dentist or hygienist will show you the best technique for brushing your teeth

We often recommend a circular technique for brushing. This includes brushing only a small group of teeth at a time - gradually covering the entire mouth. Using a back and forth motion may cause the following:

• a receded gum surface
• an exposed and tender root surface
• a wearing down of the gum line

What type of toothbrush should I use?

A toothbrush head should be small and should have a handle that's easy to hold onto. The bristles of the brush should be soft, nylon, and rounded at the ends. This helps ensure that the brush bristles are reaching the spaces between the teeth as well as the surface. Some brushes are too abrasive and can wear down the enamel on teeth. Thus, in most cases, medium and hard bristles are not recommended.

How often should I brush my teeth?

We suggest brushing your teeth at least twice a day for at least three to four minutes each time. Patients generally think they are brushing long enough, when, in fact, most people spend less than one minute brushing. It's better to brush three to four minutes twice a day instead of brushing quickly five or more times throughout the day.

We advise brushing your teeth during the day while at work, school, or play. Keep a toothbrush handy - in your desk or backpack. This will increase the likelihood that you will brush during the day.

What's the right way to floss?

Flossing is an important part of your oral care regimen. It helps remove plaque from between the teeth. Here's how to do it:

First tear about 18" of floss. Pinch it at each end with your thumb and forefinger, or wind the ends around your finger so the length of floss will be taut.

Guide the floss gently between your teeth with a sawing motion. Don't force it in between your teeth as you could cause your gums to bleed this way. Bend the floss around each tooth and slide it up and down. Then lift the floss out from between your teeth.

Wind the floss to a new section for each new tooth.

What about an oral irrigator?

This is an excellent device for removing plaque from between your teeth. It will flush additional plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and around your gums. The pulsing water from an oral irrigator also stimulates your gums to help keep them healthy.