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The Truth About Healthy Teeth and Gums

Is it all right to use mouthwash instead of flossing? Do you really need brush after every meal? Here’s a look at some of the common misconceptions about dental hygiene:

Belief: You must brush and floss your teeth after every meal to prevent gum disease and cavities.

Reality: Although brushing that often won’t hurt, it’s not absolutely necessary. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, paying special attention to the gum line, and flossing once daily.1,2

 

Belief: Brushing your teeth vigorously with an up-and-down motion cleans your teeth most effectively.

Reality: The ADA recommends gentle back-and-forth motions.2

 

Belief: You can floss your teeth by simply placing the floss between your teeth and pulling it through.

Reality: Proper flossing consists of placing the floss tightly against the side of each tooth and gently sliding it to the edge of the gum line and back again. Never snap the floss into the gums.2

 

Belief: Electric toothbrushes clean teeth more effectively.

Reality: According to the ADA , both manual and electric toothbrushes can effectively and thoroughly clean teeth. You should use whichever one you like and find easy to brush with so that you’ll use it twice daily.3

 

Belief: Rinsing with mouthwash is an effective substitute for flossing to remove the plaque that brushing doesn’t get.

Reality: While using mouthwash can help to remove oral debris before or after brushing, this is not a substitute for flossing.4

 

[1] “Cleaning Your Teeth and Gums.” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/public/topics/cleaning.asp Accessed 2008.

2 “Cleaning Your Teeth and Gums (Oral Hygiene): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/public/topics/cleaning_faq.asp Accessed 2008.

3 “A Look at Toothbrushes.” Journal of the American Dental Association. September 2007, vol. 138, no. 9, p. 1288. www.ada.org/prof/resources/pubs/jada/patient/patient_78.pdf Accessed 2008.

4  “ADA Seal of Acceptance Program: Mouthrinses.” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/ada/seal/mouthrinses.asp Accessed 2008.

Date Last Reviewed: 2/8/2008
Date Last Modified: 10/9/2008
The views represented by this article are that of the author and not of Delta Dental. This article is provided for information only. Please consult with a licensed dentist to discuss the best way for you to improve or maintain your oral health.

In all cases, specific group contract provisions, benefits, limitations and exclusions take precedence over oral health recommendations given here. We recommend that you contact your dental benefits carrier to determine the specific limitations and exclusions for your group.