Brushing your teeth properly is one of the first steps to keeping your smile healthy, along with flossing. So, are you doing it right? You may think you are, but there are so many little details about the process that it’s easy to mix up somewhere. Everything is essential, from having the right tools to implementing the proper technique when you brush your teeth.

Tooth Brushing Tips

Follow these tips and you will be brushing your teeth like a pro.

1. Session duration and frequency. Give your teeth the attention they deserve. Brush them for two to three minutes, twice daily. Plaque forms in just eight hours, so twice daily should be the minimum. Ideally, you may want to brush your teeth after every meal.
2. The toothbrush. A soft-bristled brush is best. Most importantly, make sure the shape and size of the brush head fits your mouth, allowing you to access all areas. If it’s too big, you won’t be able to brush your back teeth easily.
3. The toothpaste. The toothpaste should contain fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and removes plaque. Other than that, it’s all up to you the brand, flavor and whether you want desensitizing, whitening, tartar control or some other option. Apply a pea-sized amount to your toothbrush per session.
4. Don’t forget the tongue. The only way to remove the bacteria that grows on the tongue is by brushing – mouthwash alone isn’t enough.
5. The proper toothbrushing technique. Brush with small circular motions when brushing the sides of the back teeth and back and forth strokes for the surfaces. Hold the brush at a 45° angle (meaning angle your toothbrush toward the gum line) when brushing the front teeth and the insides of your teeth.
6. Don’t brush vigorously. Be gentle because overly vigorous brushing can harm the gums and damage tooth enamel.
7. Thoroughly rinse your toothbrush when done. Clean your toothbrush under running tap water until all the toothpaste is gone to remove all the nasty bacteria you just scrubbed off your teeth. If you don’t, you’ll end up reintroducing that bacteria into your mouth the next time you brush your teeth.
8. Regularly replace your toothbrush. Your toothbrush is no good after about three or four months of use. You’ll know it’s old when the bristles are frayed (no longer straight). Throw it away because it won’t do an excellent job of cleaning when it’s worn out. In addition, you may want to replace your toothbrush after an illness to avoid reinfection.
9. Don’t forget to floss. Brushing alone isn’t enough. Always floss your teeth before you brush them. Floss at least once a day. It’s the only way to remove the tiny bits of food debris stuck in between your teeth.

Schedule Biannual Professional Cleanings

While following these tips to brush your teeth in the best way possible is a fantastic start, it is only one element of the complete dental care routine. You should also visit your dentist biannually and eat a healthy diet, limiting sugary items.

Preventive oral care can help you avoid the pain and costs of tooth problems. You can count on Envision Dental to help guide you and keep your teeth healthy. Contact us to schedule a cleaning today.