Article from DENTAL HEALTH NEWS vol.1, issue 1   Most of us don't think too much about brushing - it's just something that we do automatically. Our kids are shown the proper way to brush when they're at the dentist, but how many of us have had a refresher course lately? Let's take some basic tooth brushing skills!   The first thing to do is to ensure that you have the proper toothbrush - one with soft, rounded bristles. Whether you prefer a manual or electric toothbrush, the selection of toothbrushes these days can be overwhelming, so don't be afraid to ask us for suggestions on the one that would be best for you. When you're comfortable with your choice of toothbrush, you'll want to review these simple brushing guidelines: Don't rush your brush! An egg timer on your bathroom counter should help you keep track to the 2 to 3 minutes that you should take to clean your teeth properly. Easy does it...start off by placing the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, where your gums and teeth meet. Brush using a gentle touch, to avoid gum irritation or damage. Aim for an all-around, thorough cleaning that means our chewing surface, your outer surface (cheek side) and your inner surface (tongue side). For fresh breath, don't forget to brush our tongue too! Finally, make sure you replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed or if you have battled a cold or flu in the meantime.

The links listed below provide additional information on dental related topics. All links open in new windows. After previewing the listed sites, simply close the current window to return to our site. The Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry www.flacosmeticdentistry.com The Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry is dedicated to advancing the Science and Art of cosmetic dentistry for its members and their patients in the state of Florida. FAGD http://www.flagd.org The Florida Academy of General Dentistry is the only organization dedicated solely to the general dentist. Their mission is to represent and serve the needs of the general dentist.Along with providing continuing dental education to help serve the public better. AGD http://www.agd.org The Academy of General Dentistry is a foundation that helps underprivileged populations with dental care and health literacy. They provide educational programs that help the aged, physically and mentally challenged touchier a healthy quality to their lives. American Equilibration Society www.occlusion-tmj.org American Equilibration Society is the largest organization in the world that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of dental occlusion (bite problems) and disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and associated muscles. ADA http://www.ada.org American Dental Association Professional association of dentists committed to the public's oral health, ethics, science and professional advancement FDA http://www.floridadental.org/ Florida Dental Association The Florida Dental Association is a statewide, professional membership organization representing Florida-licensed dentists. FDA members are committed to protecting the health and well-being of people of all ages.