Although tooth brushing becomes automatic as we age, it does not mean we do a good job. In fact, many adults overlook the signs of tooth brushing problems. They also fail to teach their children proper tooth brushing skills. So do you know how to properly brush your teeth?
Important Things to Remember about Tooth Brushing
Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things you do all day. But most of us skimp on time when it comes to fulfilling this critical task for our dental health and overall wellness.
To ensure your best dental health, you need to brush your teeth for two to three minutes twice daily. This means spending about 30 seconds of brushing time on each half of your lower teeth, then 30 seconds on each half of your upper teeth. Focusing on a half minute of brushing of each “quadrant” of your teeth helps you keep track of whether you paid each tooth enough attention. After all, we all get distracted as we think about our day and everything else we must do while going through our hygiene routine.
You also need to ensure that you use a good toothbrush. Most dentists recommend using a soft bristled brush. The soft bristles help you avoid damaging the soft tissues of your mouth, such as your gums. Talk to your dentist about whether you should use a manual toothbrush or an electric one.
Whichever toothbrush you choose, it must meet several goals. Those include cleaning your teeth and breaking up plaque. You also need the brush to gently stimulate your gums while cleaning all surfaces and between teeth.
Choosing a good toothpaste is equally essential. You need one containing fluoride, for sure. Fluoride helps keep your teeth healthy by improving weak spots and preventing decay.
Otherwise, the dentist helps you decide between regular toothpaste or special formulas for tartar control, sensitive teeth, whitening, all-natural care or other needs.
When you go in for your twice-yearly Orlando teeth cleaning, just ask your dentist which brushing supplies to use. Then after deciding on the right brush and toothpaste, you only need to know how to properly brush your teeth and do so twice daily.
How to Properly Brush Your Teeth
Set up a good routine for tooth brushing, one that gives you two to three full minutes to reach every tooth surface. Then with proper brushing technique, you must clean the front, sides, and back of your teeth. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle from the front or back teeth. On top surfaces where you chew, use a back and forth motion with the bristles directly atop the teeth.
After you brush each quadrant of your teeth for at least 30 seconds, remember to brush your tongue. This vital step in daily oral hygiene helps keep your breath fresh. This is because doing so removes bacteria, also helping you avoid tooth decay and gum disease.
Preventive Dentistry and Other Dental Services in Orlando
In Orlando, Florida, you have access to some of the highest quality dental care. These dental services include:
- General dentistry
- Family dentistry
- Restorative dentistry
- Preventive dentistry
- Cosmetic dentistry
For your best oral health and hygiene, schedule your first visit with S. Keith Mahan, DDS in Orlando. Call Dr. Mahan’s office at 407-841-7241. During your appointment, ask about how to properly brush your teeth for your best chance of avoiding tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems.
