• Use the same method to brush all outside and inside surfaces of your teeth.

• To clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth, use short sweeping strokes, tipping the bristles into the pits and crevices.

• To clean the inside surfaces of your top and bottom front teeth and gums, hold the brush almost vertical. With back and forth motions bring the front part of the brush over the teeth and gums.

• Using a forward-sweeping motion, gently brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove the decay-causing bacteria that exist in these places. · Use an egg timer or play a favorite song while brushing your teeth to ensure that you brush your teeth for 3 minutes.
  
  

Facts on Flossing

Although brushing is important, it won't remove the plaque and particles of food between your teeth, under the gum line, or under braces. You'll need to floss these spaces at least once a day. What type of floss you choose depends on how much space you have between your teeth. Although unwaxed floss is often recommended because it is thinner and easier to slide through small spaces, studies have shown that there is no major difference in the effectiveness based on the type of floss used. With any floss, you should be careful to avoid injuring your gums. Follow these instructions:

• Carefully insert the floss between two teeth, using a back and forth motion. Gently bring the floss to the gum line, but do not force it under the gums. Curve the floss around the edge of your tooth in the shape of the letter "C" and slide it up and down the side of each tooth.
  

• Repeat this process between all your teeth, and remember to floss the backsides of your back teeth.