Hopefully you already know it’s important to brush your teeth every day. But this daily brushing is much more effective if you follow these few simple tips:
- Use the Right Instruments
- Regularly Replace Your Toothbrush
- Buy an Electric Toothbrush
- Brush Two Minutes Twice a Day
- Gently & Thoroughly Brush
Soft-bristled toothbrushes are recommended for the best and safest clean. If you have a toothbrush with medium or firm bristles, these hard bristles can damage your enamel and irritate your gums, especially if you brush aggressively. In addition to having soft bristles, your toothbrush should be of the right size so that it can comfortably fit in your mouth and reach the difficult places in the back of your mouth. As for toothpaste, we usually recommend using a fluoridated toothpaste. If you’re unsure of which toothpaste to use or if you struggle with chronic dental issues (like sensitivity, gingivitis, or bad breath), consult with our expert team!
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. You should be replacing it even sooner if you see signs of fraying and wear or if you’ve been sick. A fresh toothbrush is better at cleaning off plaque and won’t harbor germs.
If you dread brushing your teeth, are unhappy with your current manual toothbrush, or have trouble applying a safe amount of pressure, consider investing in an electric toothbrush. Though you may be thinking it’ll cost you a fortune, you can actually get an excellent clean with a fairly basic electric toothbrush for less than $50. Choose one with good reviews, an automatic two-minute timer, a high-quality brush head, and a charging station. At your checkup, ask us for recommendations!
When brushing your teeth, take your time. Along with the American Dental Association, we recommend you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Unfortunately, many patients don’t brush for that long. However, brushing for the entire two minutes is critical for optimal oral health. In the grand scheme of things, two minutes twice a day is a very small amount of time. But it will help protect you from painful oral health issues, such as gum disease, decay, bad breath, and tooth loss. Additionally, strive to brush the entire surface area of every single tooth, particularly in the back of your mouth and behind your front teeth.
Gently move your toothbrush back and forth in short, gentle circles along the inside and outside of every tooth. To brush the inside surfaces of your front teeth, tilt the toothbrush vertically so that you can make up and down strokes. Last but not least, brush your tongue to get rid of any bacteria and food particles that have accumulated there. At your next appointment, please don’t hesitate to ask our team for a demonstration of the best brushing technique for your unique smile!
We Can Help Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine!
If you have additional questions about how to improve your oral hygiene routine, or any other aspect of your dental health, contact us today.
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