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Brushing & Flossing

The Importance of Brushing and Flossing

Proper Brushing Prevents Cavities

The importance of brushing properly cannot be overstated. We recommend you brush your teeth at least twice per day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using circular motions throughout the process. Hard-bristled brushes can be too abrasive and may hurt your gums.

Fluoride toothpaste is also recommended to help you remove food particulates and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. It is also important to brush your tongue because doing so aids in removing additional food particles that can contribute to plaque buildup and freshens your breath.

Why Is Flossing So Important?

“Believe it or not, flossing is as important as brushing. You do not want food particles staying in contact with the surface or teeth as that material can contribute to plaque buildup and gum problems. It’s not hard, but many people forget. Just do it.” — Dr. Ekstein

Proper flossing will remove plaque and food buildup in places where toothbrushes cannot easily reach, like below the gumline and between teeth. Flossing daily helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

To floss properly, start with about 18-20 inches of floss. Wind the floss around your middle fingers and allow a couple inches of floss to work with. Hold the floss taut between the thumbs and index fingers and gently slide it between the teeth. Move the floss around the base of each tooth and don’t forget to go beneath the gumline. Remove debris from the floss as you move from tooth to tooth. To remove the floss, use the same back-and-forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth.

For a full cleaning beyond your standard brushing and flossing habits, contact Smile Dental Specialists: Richard Ekstein, DMD in Kearny. Dial (201) 627-5060 to get started now.

Smile Design Specialist

Meet Your Board Certified Prosthodontist
  • Richard A. Ekstein Photo
    Richard A. Ekstein

    Board Certified Prosthodontist

    Get ready for a different kind of dental experience - one where every patient receives the absolute pinnacle of care! - Dr. Ekstein
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Why We're the Right Choice for You

Benefits of Smile Design Specialist:
  • CareCredit & In-Office Financing Available
  • Providing the Best Dental Care Since 1984
  • Board Certified Prosthodontist
  • Focused on your Dental & Overall Health
  • Complimentary Initial Consultations*
  • Services Available in English, Spanish & Portuguese

    *should you proceed with treatment

    Very Satisfied

    “I am very satisfied with the treatment provided by Dr. Ekstein. His dental and social skills are extraordinary. His new assistant, Elizabeth, also went above and beyond the call of duty when she ...”

    - Teresa Misyak
    Wonderful Experience

    “I love Smile Design Specialists in North Arlington.”

    - Gerard R.
    Knowledgeable, Efficient & Caring

    “Invisalign is the best investment I have ever made.”

    - Mike
    I Love My New Smile!

    “Dr. Ekstein is great and the staff at The Smile Design Specialists are amazing.”

    - Kim
    Nothing But Professional!

    “Not only do they provide a very professional experience, but I felt welcome and comfortable at every stage of my procedure.”

    - James
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