Brushing & Flossing - Adult Hygiene

Good oral hygiene begins at home. No frequency of professional cleanings can overcome poor home care. Plaque is a soft material which forms quickly and is easily brushed and flossed away by regular care and is the culprit in almost all oral health problems. A thorough brushing and flossing twice a day is generally adequate to remove plaque and maintain good oral health.

Since the object is plaque removal and plaque is soft, and the ends of the toothbrush bristles are what are effective in removing plaque, use a soft brush, gently. Hard toothbrushes and scrubbing are not nearly as effective as a soft brush used gently. Another danger in using a harder brush is the wear and tear placed on the teeth and gums, which frequently result in dental sensitivity.