Proper Brushing and Flossing in Scottsdale, AZ

Brushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. Though regular professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar and debris, excellent homecare methods are equally important. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle and prevent serious problems.

Reasons why proper brushing and flossing are essential:

Prevention of tooth decay – Tooth decay is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and its treatment often requires complex dental procedures. Tooth decay occurs when the acids found in plaque erode the natural enamel found on the teeth. This phenomenon can easily be prevented by using proper home hygiene methods.
Prevention of periodontal disease – Periodontal disease is a serious, progressive condition which can cause tooth loss, gum recession and jawbone recession. Periodontal disease is caused by the toxins found in plaque, and can lead to serious health problems in other parts of the body. Removing plaque and calculus (tartar) from the surface of the tooth using a toothbrush, and from the interdental areas using dental floss, is an excellent way to stave off periodontal problems.
Prevention of halitosis – Bad breath or halitosis is usually caused by old food particles on or between the teeth. These food particles can be removed with regular brushing and flossing; leaving the mouth healthier, and breath smelling fresher.
Prevention of staining – Staining or the yellowing of teeth can be caused by a wide variety of factors such as smoking, coffee and tea. The more regularly these staining agents are removed from the teeth using brushing and flossing techniques, the less likely it is that the stains will become permanent.

The Proper Way to Brush

The teeth should be brushed at least twice a day; ideally in the morning and before bed. The perfect toothbrush is small in size with soft, rounded-end bristles and no more than three months old. The head of the brush needs to be small enough to access all areas of the mouth, and the bristles should be soft enough so as not to cause undue damage to the gum tissue. The American Dental Association (ADA) has given electric toothbrushes their seal of approval; stating that those with rotating or oscillating heads are more effective than other toothbrushes.

Here is a basic guide to proper brushing:

Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where the gums and teeth meet.
Use small circular motions to gently brush the gumline and teeth.
Do not scrub or apply too much pressure to the teeth, as this can damage the gums and tooth enamel.
Brush every surface of every tooth, cheek-side, tongue-side, and chewing surfaces. Place special emphasis on the surfaces of the back teeth.
Use back and forth strokes to brush the chewing surfaces.
Brush the tongue to remove fungi, food and debris.

The Proper Way to Floss

Flossing is a great way to remove plaque from the between the teeth. Flossing is an especially important tool for preventing periodontal disease and limiting the depth of the gum pockets. The interdental regions are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and should be cleansed with dental floss on a daily basis. Dental floss can be purchased with a flavor. Waxed floss is the recommended type of floss to use. Choose a floss that will be easy and pleasant to use.

Here is a basic guide to proper flossing:

Cut a piece of floss to around 18 inches long.
Wrap one end of the floss around the middle finger of the left hand and the other end around the middle finger of the right hand until the hands are 2-3 inches apart.
Work the floss gently between the teeth toward the gum line.
Curve the floss in a U-shape around each individual tooth and carefully slide it beneath the gum line.
Carefully move the floss up and down several times to remove interdental plaque and debris.
Do not pop the floss in and out between the teeth as this will inflame and cut the gums.

If you have any questions about the correct way to brush or floss, please ask Dr. Bleeker.

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What our patients are saying

    
 
 
      Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a patient of Dr. Bleeker’s for many years, and it has always been a pleasure to be under his care. His professionalism is truly beyond the highest standard. He consistently demonstrates exceptional skill, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients. Several years ago, I had veneers placed, and they performed beautifully without any issues for many years.  When one of the veneered teeth later came off, Dr. Bleeker recommended placing a full crown, which worked perfectly. About a week later, a second tooth veneer came loose. Rather than simply replacing it, he chose to place another full crown to ensure a stronger, longer-lasting result. What impressed me most was that both crowns were provided free of charge—far beyond what I ever expected. Dr. Bleeker truly went above and beyond to stand behind his work and ensure I was completely satisfied. I am incredibly grateful for his dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. I highly recommend Dr. Bleeker to anyone seeking outstanding dental care.
  
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   William Mcardle 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am a general dentist in Phoenix and I needed Dr Bleeker’s help with a complex denture where my patient had to have his mandibular bone removed and replaced with a leg bone. I successfully help my patients with dentures in my office, but this particular case was beyond my skill level. Dr Bleeker has been exactly what this patient needed—knowledgeable, kind, easy to work with, and full of solutions. I will definitely refer other complex patients to Dr Bleeker.
  
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   Paul Nielson 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been to quite a few dentists in my time. I have implants and crowns and hands down Dr. Bleeker and his fabulous assistant, Cheryl make it worthwhile to drive from the Biltmore area to North Scottsdale. I highly recommend this dental practice.
  
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   Sherrie Kelly 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best office ever! Dr Bleeker is so talented and Cheryl and Melinda are so knowledgeable and kind! Always leave there laughing and having a great time!!!!
  
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   Interiors professional 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I met Dr Bleeker on a referral; I was able To get right away because of a cancellation. I love the easy manner Dr Bleeker has and how relaxed he is. His PA Cheryl is very professional, however, she will always make you smile. They have all the latest technology including lasers for healing and Yomi for robotic surgery implant placement.
  
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   Beverly Schwartz 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very clean office great atmosphere! Very professional staff! Dr Bleeker is very artistic
  
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   Lyn Chi 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is the best place  to go for any and all dental work!  The staff and the doctor know what they’re doing. I can’t believe the difference in knowledge, experience and technology that they have. Just don’t go anywhere else you will regret it. That’s what happened to me…all of the time and money I  wasted at these other dental offices ..I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Bleeker and his staff.
  
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How to Properly Brush & Floss

The Proper Way to Brush

The Proper Way to Floss

Reviews

What our patients are saying

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Monday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday	Closed
Sunday	Closed