As a Hygienist over the years, I have found that most adult patients do not know how to properly brush, floss, and maintain a clean mouth. Many have questions about products to u se and how to use them. Oral hygiene instruction has been a major factor in all of my hygiene appointments. Whether it be a new patient or a patient I see every 3 months. Oral hygiene instruction always plays a major role.
I am always happy when patients are not ashamed to ask me questions like “Can you review flossing with me at the end of our appointment?” or “Can you show me again how to brush?”, and my all time favorite “I brought my toothbrush with me so I can show you how I have been brushing since we review it last visit.”
When I first meet a new patient, I like for them to tell me first the products they use and then how they are using them. Sounds silly but it all plays a key role. Sometimes we have to say “Is what I am doing and using working for me?” Although I don’t ever expect a patient to use what I use, I am open to suggestions and trying new products. For example, I would prefer regular “string” floss over floss sticks. But, for some patients the floss sticks are easier for them to hold especially elderly patients with arthritis in their hands or the pediatric population where they have no learned the dexterity to floss with string. I am not opposed to patients using them if it works for them and it is working effectively. I prefer an electric toothbrush vs manual but I do use both and don’t mind if a patient has a preference as long as it is working.
