Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush in a size and shape that fits your mouth comfortably. Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles are worn or frayed. Worn toothbrushes won’t clean teeth properly. Both manual and powered toothbrushes are effective at removing plaque. If you have hand, arm or shoulder problems that limit movement, a powered toothbrush may be easier for you to use. Your dental office may also recommend certain products for your oral health needs. Supervise teeth brushing for children up to age 6—make sure they use the right amount of toothpaste and spit the toothpaste out. Begin brushing children’s teeth as soon as the first tooth comes in and until the age of 3 years, using a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. After age 3, use a pea-sized amount. Eating a healthy diet, limiting snacks and visiting your dentist regularly will help you keep your smile healthy for years to come. 1. Place your toothbrush against your gums at a 45-degree angle. Move the brush back and forth gently and in short strokes, about as wide as each of your teeth. 2. Brush the outer tooth surfaces, keeping the toothbrush at an angle to the gums. 3. Brush the inner tooth surfaces. 4. Brush the chewing surfaces. 5. Use the top part of the brush to clean the inside surface of the top and bottom front teeth. Use a gentle up-and-down motion. 6. Brush your tongue, which may help remove bacteria and debris. Basic Brushing Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about the best way to brush your teeth. Here are a few tips to help you start a good routine: When choosing a toothbrush, floss and fluoride toothpaste, look for products that show the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. This means that the product meets the ADA’s standards for safety and effectiveness. For children under three years old For children three to six years old Your Child’s Teeth Helpful tips for parents and caregivers Parents REVISED Brushing Quick Reference Card Show patients the #1 way to fight tooth decay and gum disease with step-by-step photos. Reminds them that two minutes, twice a day is optimal. Includes healthy smile tips and blank lines for your own message. W257 Two-sided cards, 100 per pack REVISED Flossing Quick Reference Card If patients feel clumsy about flossing or just plain forget, this handy card gives pointers and encouragement. Close-up photos show each step of proper flossing technique. Great to send home as a hygiene reminder! Add your own message using the blank lines on the back. W258 Two-sided cards, 100 per pack REVISED Basic Brushing A toothbrush is an important tool in the fight against decay and disease. Encourage twice-daily brushing with this simple step- by-step guide. Compact size makes it perfect to send home as a “refresher course” in hygiene. W112 Mini-brochure, 5.875” x 3” 100 per pack Basic Flossing Get patients to see flossing as an essential part of oral care. Mini-brochure shows the steps with easy-to-follow photos, while the text coaches patients to stick with it until they get the hang of flossing. Mentions helpful types of interdental cleaners, too. W137 Mini-brochure, 5.875” x 3” 100 per pack W112 W137 W257 W258 Pricing for Quick Reference Cards PACKS MEMBER RETAIL 1 $35.00 $52.50 2-9 $29.75 $44.65 10+ $26.25 $39.35 Pricing for Mini-Brochures PACKS MEMBER RETAIL 1 $35.00 $52.50 2-9 $29.75 $44.65 10+ $26.25 $39.35 Back-to-Basics Patient Education Kit Complete Care Patient Education Kit These comprehensive booklets ensure you are prepared to help answer the more inquisitive patients’ questions. Save $28 over purchasing these topics separately. Includes 50 each of the following booklets: W177 Your Child’s Teeth W293 3 Tooth Replacement Options W302 Your Smile: An Owner’s Manual W120 Periodontal Disease: Your Complete Guide K008 Kit, 4 brochure packs | Members $112.00 Retail $168.00 | 5.5” x 8.5”, 50 per pack Periodontal Periodontal Disease Your Complete Guide Pricing for Complete Care Booklets PACKS MEMBER RETAIL 1 $35.00 $52.50 2-9 $29.75 $44.65 10+ $26.25 $39.35 This kit includes topics that are ideal for helping you get the word out about your practice at community health fairs, school visits, open houses and community outreach events. Save $32 over purchasing these topics separately. Includes 50 each of the following brochures: W304 Treating Cavities, See page 72 W121 Periodontal Disease: Don’t Wait Until it Hurts, See page 51 W135 Taking Care of Your Teeth and Gums, See page 57 W265 Why Doesn’t My Insurance Pay for This?, See page 62 W292 Sip and Snack All Day? Risk Decay!, See page 64 K004 Kit, 5 brochure packs | Members $115.00 Retail $172.50 PATIENT EDUCATION HYGIENE | KITS 58 ORDER ONLINE: ADACATALOG.ORG 59 ORDER BY PHONE: 800.947.4746