The foundational practice of maintaining clean and healthy teeth is brushing your teeth after each and every meal.  In addition to consistently brushing, it is also just as important to use the right type of toothbrush.  Always, without exception, use a soft bristle toothbrush.  Medium and hard bristle brushes will damage your gums.  It is also important to make sure that the head of the toothbrush is the right size for your mouth, and that you can comfortably grip the toothbrush in your hand. 

There is an ongoing debate about whether or not people should use manual or power toothbrushes.  This really depends upon the individual.  Power toothbrushes have recently been developed that feature very ergonomic designs and bristles that can rotate and oscillate to clean all exposed teeth surfaces.  They can be very effective when it comes to removing plaque.  The head of a power toothbrush is also smaller than the head on most manual toothbrushes.  Some people find them easier to maneuver around their mouths and get to hard to reach places in the back.

Power brushes are also designed to be very gentle on your mouth.  You do not have to press a power toothbrush against your teeth or gums to clean them.  The automatic movement of the brush provides all the cleaning action you need.  Many people who have suffered from bleeding gums have reported that power tooth brushes have actually helped reduce bleeding.  This is more than likely the result of the lessened brushing force and the round shape of the bristles on the power toothbrush.

We do not officially endorse or discourage the use of power toothbrushes as a hard fast rule for everyone to follow.  Instead, we encourage each patient to use the brush that best helps them clean their teeth and maintain healthy gums in the process. 

Flossing daily is an essential step in maintaining clean teeth.  Flossing gets between the teeth to clean off plaque that the tooth brush cannot reach.  Plaque is very dangerous to your teeth, because it serves as a breeding ground for bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay.  By flossing teeth each time you brush them, you can keep them free of plaque and minimize the chances of infection or cavities.  Waiting more than 24 hours to clean your teeth, however, will allow bacteria enough time to reattach to your teeth. 

Be sure to guide the floss between your teeth and gently in the area between your teeth and gums.

It is a good idea to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment with the dentist every six months.  If you have gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease, you need to have the dentist clean your teeth every three to four months. 

Tartar control toothpastes can also help you maintain clean and healthy teeth.

Tartar control toothpastes are designed to slow the formation of tartar.  Tartar is created by plaque hardening when it is allowed to build up on the teeth.  These special toothpastes have helped many people maintain clean teeth and avoid cavities and other gum problems related to the buildup of tartar and bacteria.  However, some people have reported that their teeth become more sensitive when they use tartar control toothpaste.  If this happens to you, try changing brands, or try using only a small amount.  You can also call your dentist to see what other options might be available.