Tooth brushing. It’s a task you’ve been doing twice-daily for most of your life – but have you been doing it correctly?
How you brush your teeth can make a huge difference in your overall oral health. Here are four tips to start implementing today to improve your brushing skills!
Choose the Proper Tools
Like most tasks in life, having the right tools helps get the job done right!
Toothbrush: Prevent gum damage by investing in a toothbrush that has soft bristles. Being able to reach the backs of your teeth is essential, so choose the right sized one for your mouth.
Electric toothbrushes are always an option. Keep in mind, however, that they only work if you have an excellent brushing technique!
Toothpaste: Fluoride prevents tooth decay, replaces lost minerals in teeth and helps make them stronger. That’s why it’s crucial that it’s in your toothpaste! Not all toothpaste has it so make sure it does.
Disclosing Tablets: To see if you’ve removed most of the plaque on your teeth, use a disclosing tablet. Available in grocery stores and pharmacies, they help make plaque visible and show you areas you missed while brushing.
Brush for the Right Amount of Time
You should be brushing at least two times per day, or after every meal.
Besides the frequency of brushing, the technique is important! If you’re not brushing for at least two minutes, you’re likely not cleaning well enough.
Set a timer or play a song for two minutes on your phone to hit that timeframe.
Use the Right Brushing Technique
Prep your toothbrush by dispersing only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Use short, gentle brush strokes and a 45-degree angle. Get as close to your gum line as possible so that tartar can be removed. Don’t forget the backs of your teeth! They are equally important as the ones you see.
Missing areas of your mouth can inhibit bacteria growth and create other oral health problems. Thoroughly brush both the upper and lower teeth, the chewing surfaces, the inner surfaces and the outer surfaces. Don’t forget to brush your cheeks and tongue!
Remember to incorporate flossing and an oral rinse into your brushing routine, too.
Consult the Experts
Dentists love when patients ask questions related to their oral health, so don’t be afraid to ask us about brushing techniques.
Although it’s something that we all (hopefully) complete regularly, it’s a skill that many people can do better.
We can gladly demonstrate proper brushing technique with you at your next dental cleaning visit.
Call us today to schedule yours!
