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|  Each
day your teeth are under attack by plaque
which contains bacteria. This plaque, when
left on oral surfaces, can cause infection
of the gums and deterioration of the teeth.
Since plaque is most active between the
teeth it is most important to thoroughly
brush at least two times daily. Regular
flossing helps get into the tighter areas
to remove plaque and has other health implications.
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Brush twice daily.
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Floss on a regular basis.
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Eat a healthy diet.
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Have a check-up every 6 months.
How to brush?
Brush after meals, using a soft brush and
a fluoride tooth paste. Start at one place
and work all the way around your mouth.
Brush the front, back, and top of each tooth
as shown below.
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Hold
the brush at a 45ฐ angle and gently
brush the outer surfaces, using a circular
or back-and-forth motion.
Then brush the inner surfaces of the
back teeth using the same motion.
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Turn
the brush and use the tip to clean the
inner surfaces of the upper and lower
front teeth.
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Clean
the chewing surfaces using a scrubbing
motion. Brush your tongue, then rinse
well.
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How to floss?
Floss at least once a day to remove plaque
between the teeth and below the gums. Start
at one place and work all the way around
your mouth.
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Wrap
12 - 18 inches of floss around your
middle fingers. Secure it with your
index fingers and thumbs.
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Ease
the floss between your teeth. Press
it against one side then the other,
to form a C-shape.
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Work
the floss back and forth and up and
down, going below the gum line where
plaque collects.
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NOTE:
If you have a bridge or wear braces, use
a floss threader to get the floss under
your bridge or your wires.
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