Are you brushing your teeth correctly? Follow these directions to make sure your teeth are as healthy as can be.
Brushing your teeth is an essential part of maintaining your oral hygiene. Brushing not only keeps your teeth clean but leaves your breath fresh and washes away bacteria. Practicing regular brushing also helps prevent gum disease and boost your immune system. However, you can only enjoy these benefits by brushing your teeth correctly. So how do you know if you’re doing it right? Read on to find out the best techniques for your dental care.
Your Tooth Brushing Tools
First, you must start with the proper tools. You will want to use:
- A soft-bristled toothbrush. You can use manual or electric, but it is better to use soft bristles to protect your gums and enamel.
- Toothpaste with fluoride. Make sure you choose toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval.
- Floss and Mouthwash
Once you have the right tools, you need to make sure to brush twice a day and floss at least once per day.
Step One: Prep Your Toothbrush
Before brushing your teeth correctly, wet the bristles of your toothbrush with water. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
Step Two: Clean the Front of Your Teeth
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, and gently brush the fronts of your teeth. Use small, circular strokes to clean your teeth rather than scrubbing vigorously. If you brush too hard, you can damage your enamel.
Step Three: Work on the Outer Surfaces
Next, brush the outside surfaces of your teeth, including the tops and back molars. Pay attention to the bumpy surfaces of your teeth, where you chew food, and where food remnants may be stuck.
Step Four: Move to the Inside Surfaces
You don’t want to forget about the inside surfaces of your teeth! To finish brushing your teeth correctly, flip your toothbrush upside down to catch the inner surfaces and your gum line.
Step Five: Brush Your Tongue
Bacteria can also build up on the surface of your tongue, so you shouldn’t neglect it. When you’re finished brushing your teeth, brush the top of your tongue to remove buildup and contribute to fresh breath. You may additionally use a tongue scraper to be extra thorough.
Last Step: Rinse
Finally, spit the excess toothpaste into the sink. Rinse out any toothpaste in your mouth with fresh, cold water.
Essential Tips & Tricks
You should also remember these tips to make sure you are brushing your teeth correctly every day:
- Brush for at least two minutes each time. It can help find a song, poem, or timer to mark how long you brush.
- Floss at least once each day to reach the small spaces between your teeth.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or after you’ve been sick.
- Eat a balanced diet with fresh vegetables and limited sweets.
Finally, the final key to dental care is scheduling regular appointments with your dentist. Your dentist can check for any signs of damage and can give your teeth a thorough, professional cleaning.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Dental Care Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.