Brushing & Flossing Techniques in Lynnwood, Washington

The Importance of Brushing

We recommend assisting children with brushing longer than you expect: even up to 2nd or 3rd grade. Use no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, and make sure children do not swallow excess toothpaste. At ages 2 and 3, when your child is not good at spitting yet, use a half of a pea size amount, (just a small smear) of fluoride toothpaste to compensate the fact that they may swallow it. Getting SOME fluoride on the teeth is important starting at age 2 for the prevention of cavities.

When you brush your teeth, move the brush in small circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth, on the surface of each tooth and gum line. It will take you two minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Remember to brush the "three sides" of each tooth: 1) the cheek side 2) the tongue or palate side 3) the biting side. Most people focus only on the biting surface and forget the other sides along the gum line, which are just as important! Brush your tongue to finish for better breath.