You’re quick to assure your dentist that yes, you brush your teeth twice a day. But the truth is, if you’re not using the right brushing techniques, you’re not getting the full preventative health benefits of tooth brushing.
Proper brushing can prevent cavities and other oral health issues, remove plaque, and reduce bad breath. The ADA recommends several key components of an effective brushing routine:
Time It
To really clean your teeth, you need to brush for two minutes at each session. That’s thirty seconds to brush each mouth quadrant. Many people definitely don’t brush long enough — try finding a song you love that’s around 2 minutes long, and use it to time your brushing. It’ll help with your technique and make brushing more fun!
Out With the Old
To get the most out of your toothbrush, replace it every 3 or 4 months, or sooner if it starts to look worn. It’s not worth using a toothbrush that’s past its prime and not getting the most out of your brushing routine. When shopping for your toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, look for products with the ADA’s seal of approval.
No Tooth Left Behind
It’s not enough to mindlessly run your toothbrush over your teeth. To get the most out of your brushing, make an effort to brush the front, back, and top of each tooth with short strokes. If you don’t enjoy using a manual toothbrush, you can try a powered one (though manual brushes work just fine to clean your teeth).
In addition to proper brushing techniques, don’t forget to floss, avoid excess sugar, and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleaning. Contact us today to schedule a visit for preventative care or to address any dental issues. We offer general dentistry for the whole family, including sedation dentistry and migraine therapy.