Many of our patients at Dr. Bill Dorfman DDS walk in for cosmetic dentistry or dental implants. Many for routine checkups and cleanings. And most really want to know if they are brushing correctly. Having patients come for treatment and leave with questions answered—from which toothpaste to buy to proper tools and techniques—is our business.

1 Soft Bristle Toothbrush

Gentle brushing will achieve the same results as hard bristle brushing without the abrasive damage to gums and gum line. There is never a good reason to use hard or medium bristle toothbrushes. Better yet, wet the soft bristle toothbrush to be sure the bristles are soft and pliant before brushing.

2 Minutes of Brushing and Flossing

Split the mouth into fourths and spend a good 30 seconds in each quarter. Hit the chewing surfaces, the inside surfaces, the outside surfaces and gently massage the gums. Be sure to reach the far side of the back tooth that is never visible but can collect food and allow cavities to begin. Take two minutes to floss after brushing in the evening to remove any remnants the toothbrush couldn’t coax out and to clean any build-up. You have approximately 32 teeth and 32 gaps to floss clean. Two minutes should do the trick, but adding an extra minute for good measure can’t hurt.

3 Times a Day

Brushing after every meal should remain the goal. This is difficult for many who are not home for the midday meal. To achieve extraordinary dental hygiene, brushing is priority one. There are as many toothpaste choices out there as you have teeth; without consistent brushing and flossing, those teeth are facing sure destruction. Don’t misunderstand, toothpaste is essential. Toothpaste acts as the vehicle that collects the debris, keeps the bristles pliable, fluoridates the mouth, freshens the breath and a myriad of other side jobs. But after every meal, gently removing food debris prevents breakdown on precious tooth surfaces. Even if you don’t use toothpaste after lunch, a quick brushing can keep your teeth free of buildup.

At Bill Dorfman DDS in Los Angeles, we can help you stay on top of your dental hygiene. We provide general and family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and other services. Make an appointment today.

Contact Dr. Bill Dorfman, DDS – Century City Aesthetic Dentistry:

855-703-7062

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2080 Century Park E Ste 1601
Los Angeles, California
90067