Gum hygiene: the right steps, in the right order
Four essential steps, always in this order: floss first, then the interdental brush, then the toothbrush. The water flosser, optional, can be added if needed. The sentence under each video holds the key point; tap a video to pause it, tap again to resume.
The floss holder the easiest way to start
A small handle keeps the floss taut, so anyone can manage it. Slide the floss gently between two teeth without snapping it onto the gum, then clean both teeth, one after the other.
Dental floss the classic technique
Trickier to handle, classic floss cleans just as well once the movement is learnt. Wind it around your fingers, guide it between the teeth, wrap it against each tooth and slide gently under the gum. A fresh length for each gap.
The water flosser an optional step
Optional, but valuable where floss and brushes struggle: wide gaps between teeth, around implants, under bridges, on natural teeth as on implants. The water jet flushes debris away; it complements floss without replacing it.
Teeth sensitive to cold? Fill the reservoir with lukewarm water: the jet becomes gentle and comfortable.
Interdental brushes between the teeth
Where the gap allows, the interdental brush complements floss and often replaces it. Its size is chosen at the practice: it fills the gap without forcing. Ease it in with small movements, go back and forth three times in each gap, then remove it.
The electric toothbrush last of all
The toothbrush comes last, once the gaps are clear. Place the head where tooth meets gum, let it do the work and move slowly from tooth to tooth without pressing. Outer surfaces, inner surfaces, biting surfaces, and the back of the last molars.
Patient pathway