While regular dental care from our skilled and experienced dentists helps you maintain good oral health, proper brushing and flossing techniques and habits are essential to maintaining a healthy smile and preventing tooth decay and disease that are costly to your health and wallet. In order to best care for your teeth, you should brush and floss at least twice a day.

You should brush your teeth for at least two minutes, or just less than the time it takes to listen to one of your favorite songs. Be sure to brush every surface of your teeth, as well as your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. When you brush, you should make small circles in short strokes over all surfaces. Be sure to be thorough but gentle when you brush; brushing your teeth too vigorously with a hard-bristled toothbrush can actually remove the protective enamel on your teeth, making them more vulnerable to damage. You should also take care of your toothbrush by storing it properly in an upright, dry position, and replace your toothbrush when the bristles start to fray.

Father and son cleaning teeth with dental floss

When you first begin flossing, you may notice that your gums start to bleed. This bleeding is normal for the first few days of flossing. After a few days, the bleeding should subside as your gums adjust and become stronger and healthier.

If you would like more information about flossing and brushing, please visit our blog or contact Gateway Oaks Dental at 916-649-0249. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you schedule your appointment with Dr. Hoang Truong at our dental office in Sacramento, California.