There are many factors to make sure that you’re brushing your teeth correctly. Brushing your teeth the right way can help avoid both short and long-term negative effects to your teeth and mouth.
Here are three tips to follow to make sure you’re getting the most out of your brushing experience:
Timing Is Everything
More than anything else, it’s important you are putting the right amount of time into brushing your teeth.
You should be brushing at least twice a day and at least two minutes each time. You’ll also see huge payoffs if you’re able to commit to the full-service teeth cleaning (flossing, mouthwash and brushing) at least one of those times.
Try not to fall into the trap of doing a quick brush because you’re in a rush. Even if you’re ready to go to bed or you’re late to get to work, give your teeth the two minutes of focus each time you brush.
It’s also common for people to want to brush their teeth immediately after eating a meal. Brushing your teeth after eating is fine, but you should wait 30 minutes before brushing. If you don’t, you could be actually intensifying the acid on your teeth which causes them to erode faster.
Having The Right Brush In Your Arsenal
The time that you put into your teeth is important, but it’s not nearly as effective if you’re not using the right brush.
Whatever brush you have, make sure that the brush has soft bristles. This allows the bristles to get to the hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Many people think that harder bristles are better. While it makes sense in theory, that’s actually not true. Harder bristles aren’t as capable and can end up damaging your gums.
Don’t cling onto hope that your toothbrush is still useful even though all the signs tell you it’s not. If your brush is discolored, dirty or has frayed bristles, you should get a new brush. It’s best to get a new brush every three or four months.
It’s All About Technique
Your teeth are sensitive. Brushing harder is not necessarily better. Brushing should be considered more of a massage for your teeth.
You should also make sure that you’re getting as close to the gum line as possible. The gum line is a hot spot for bacteria. Attacking the gum line at the ADA-recommended 45-degree angle will give you a better chance of protecting your oral health. Again, that’s why having soft bristles is so important. That allows your brush to get to those sensitive spots. For a brush that can help you develop proper brushing habits and keep your teeth in smiling shape, check out the MD Brush.
Are You Brushing Correctly?
If you want to know if you are brushing correctly, contact Accent Dental Group. Our friendly staff and advanced dental technology will provide all the tools and advice you need to brighten your smile. Find out more at our website: accentdentalgroup.com.