Brushing and flossing, along with professional cleanings at our Highlands Ranch, CO dental office, are the most important things you can do to ensure a healthy, happy smile. We believe every patient is unique—your smile is yours and yours alone. That’s why we always base our recommendation of preventive care on the individual. 

ORAL HEALTH TIPS FROM COPELAND FAMILY DENTAL

  • Take your time when brushing. Spend at least two to three minutes brushing and another two to three minutes flossing.

  • Look in a mirror during or after to assess how well you are brushing.

  • Invest in an electric toothbrush like a Sonicare.

  • A hard toothbrush (and hard brushing) is not better for your teeth—you can do a lot of damage to your gums if you brush too hard.

  • The bristles of your toothbrush can't fit between your teeth, so floss daily to keep those surfaces clean.

  • Bacterial plaque builds up on everyone's teeth—even those who work in a dental office. We get our teeth cleaned every six months, and so should you!

If it's been six months since your last dental checkup, then it's time to contact our Highlands Ranch, CO dental office and schedule your next appointment!

Printable instructions >


Brushing Instructions

How to brush step 1.

Brushing: Step 1

Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.

How to brush step 2.

Brushing: Step 2

Brush gently in a circular motion.

How to brush step 3.

Brushing: Step 3

Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.

How to brush step 4.

Brushing: Step 4

Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.


Flossing Instructions

How to floss step 1.

Flossing: Step 1

Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and the other finger takes it up as the floss is used.

How to floss step 2.

Flossing: Step 2

Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.

How to floss step 3.

Flossing: Step 3

Holding the floss tightly, gently saw it between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.

How to floss step 4.

Flossing: Step 4

Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.