Brushing your teeth is essential. This is a fact that almost no one would dispute. However, just because your bristles are moving around your teeth does not mean that you are properly brushing them. Brushing properly is not something anyone can teach you.
We have put together a list with 11 tips to help you brush your teeth properly.
Brush twice a day
A woman brushes her teeth at a 45 degree angle while she is brushing for minimum two minutes
It is possible for all your food to have decayed between your teeth after a long day.
You have slept for a long time, and the bacteria in your mouth has had ample time to grow. It is important to get rid of this bacteria. You are greatly increasing your chances of getting a cavity or an infection if you skip either of these brushing sessions.
Each session lasts two minutes
This is the time you should aim for when brushing your teeth. It may seem that two minutes is a lot to dedicate to brushing your teeth, especially if you’re in a rush. However, it is just as important to make sure you reach every part of your mouth each session.
Use a soft-bristled brush
Brushing is not about sandpapering away plaque and tartar using a stiff brush. This can eventually cause permanent damage to enamel and gums.
The aim is to loosen any material between your teeth in a gentle two-minute session. A soft-bristled toothbrush will do the trick and protect your gums.
Check that your brush fits properly
This is particularly important when teaching children good dental hygiene habits. If your toothbrush is too large for your mouth, it will make it difficult to clean your teeth. Choose a brush that is appropriate for your dentition.
Keep your Toothbrush Clean!
Every three months, we recommend that you get a new toothbrush. Replace your toothbrush as soon as the edges are fraying.
A frayed toothbrush will not remove bacteria from your mouth.
Use Proper Toothpaste
The toothpaste that comes with a toothbrush is its best friend. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA).
The ADA seal can be used to assess a product’s quality. Any product that could cause tooth decay (e.g. sugar) will need to have it stamped. An ADA seal will not be applied to sugar.
Discover the right angle
To maximize the removal of bacteria and plaque from your mouth, keep your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your teeth.
Make the Correct Move
Avoid brushing your teeth back-and-forth. A circle is the best way to move particles between teeth. Too much line brushing can cause irreparable damage to enamel and gums.
All Surfaces Covered
During your two-minute session, make sure that you are conscious of brushing your front, back and chewing surfaces.
You will likely miss several sections of your teeth if you do not. You should also brush the top of your tongue to prevent bacteria from building up.
Floss! Floss!
Brushing your teeth can remove most of the plaque from your teeth. However, flossing at least once a day is the best way to ensure you get into all corners of your mouth.
Flossing is an essential step in preventing cavities and infection.
A balanced diet is advised
Instead of reaching for that sugary, chewy candy bag that can get stuck between your teeth, causing decay, choose something that has less sugar and a fibrous texture like celery or carrots. Your dental health will improve if you reduce your sugar intake.
Visit Your Local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist
Even the most skilled brushers need to visit the dentist on a regular basis to ensure that there aren’t any new developments in the dentition.
Even though we believe we take good care of our teeth, there are times when we forget to check certain areas. Only a qualified dentist can fix these problems.