Here are a few simple ways that you can prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue; this will remove any extra plaque-causing food particles, and help keep your breath fresh!
  • Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

Brushing Instructions

Brushing your teeth: instructions, step 1 | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Brushing: Step 1

Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.

Brushing your teeth: instructions, step 2 | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Brushing: Step 2

Brush gently in a circular motion.

Brushing your teeth: instructions, step 3 | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Brushing: Step 3

Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.

Brushing your teeth: instructions, step 4 | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Brushing: Step 4

Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.

Flossing Instructions

Flossing your teeth: instructions | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Flossing: Step 1

Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and as the floss is used, the other finger takes it up.

Flossing your teeth: instructions | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Flossing: Step 2

Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.

Flossing your teeth: instructions | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Flossing: Step 3

Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.

Flossing your teeth: instructions | Tate Eble, DDS | Franklin, TN Dentist

Flossing: Step 4

Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.