| Self-Care: A How-To Guide© If Dr. Loewen were stranded on a deserted island and had to choose between dental floss and a toothbrush, he would probably pick dental floss. WHY? Because brushing only gets rid of a fraction of the plaque in your mouth. Flossing takes care of the majority. Ask Dr. Loewen or Lori (hygienist) to give you hands-on instruction, but remember that everyone does it differently. You may need to practice at first, but, in time, you can develop a pattern that works for you. Five-Star Flossing |
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 Floss come in waxed, unwaxed, flavored or tape varieies. Dr. Loewen may suggest a particular type for you. When you first learn how to floss, it may take longer, but you should floss a minimum of once a day for five full minutes. |
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  Take 18 inches of recommended floss and wrap it securely around your middle fingers.Hold your index fingers firmly, and allow only about a half-inch length of floss between them. |
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  Gently tease the floss between your teeth and be sure to press tightly against each side.Ease the floss up and down several times, and go below your gumline where all the bacterial action is. |
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| Blue-Ribbon Brushing | |
A small, soft, angled brush with rounded bristles is best. Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are worn down. When you first learn it may take longer, but you should brush for a full five minutes or longer, twice a day. |
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  Use a fluoride paste, point brush at a 45 degree angle toward gumline, and brush in gentle, circular motions.Work the tip of your brush around the inner, front surfaces. Don't forget the back areas of your mouth. |
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  Clean inner and outer surfaces by folling down for the upper teeth, and up for the lower teeth.Clean the biting surfaces by using a scrubbing motion. Brush gums and tongue, then rinse well. |
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| Special Aids for Special Needs Dr. Loewen may recommend these or other dental extras for implant or denture wearers, children, orthodontic or arthritic patients, or anyone else with special dental needs. |
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