Tooth brushing is a common twice daily routine. Regular brushing and flossing every day will keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy. At Telopea Park Dental, we know a thing or two about brushing, and we often receive questions about the right way to brush. Here are seven tips for brushing your teeth to help keep your pearly whites looking and feeling their best.
1. Brush for 2-minutes
It’s not enough to brush twice a day. You need to maximize your brushing efforts by brushing for 2-minutes each time. A full 2-minute cleaning twice a day ensures your teeth get a proper cleaning.
2. Choose the right toothbrush
A home dental cleaning becomes a headache when you have the wrong toothbrush on hand. Choose one that fits your mouth and brushing needs. Size is one area that is important to consider when selecting a brush, especially if you’re choosing a toothbrush for a child. Children have small mouths and small teeth. Adult brushes are often too large to comfortably fit in their mouths and give enough range of motion to reach all their teeth.
3. Opt for soft bristles
Soft bristles are generally better for your gums and the enamel of your teeth. Firm bristles might seem to be getting teeth cleaner quicker, but they’re harsh on the external coating of your teeth. While you scrape away plaque and tartar buildup, you could also be scraping away enamel and hurting your gums. A soft bristle brush does the job just fine so long as you brush the full 2-minutes.
3. Choose toothpaste with an ADA seal
When you choose a toothpaste, check for the ADA seal of approval to ensure your toothpaste meets the association's specifications. Good quality toothpaste should contain fluoride, a natural mineral that helps protect tooth enamel from acidic foods and drinks. It helps prevent early signs of aging teeth and tooth decay.
4. Swap out your old toothbrush for a new one
Many patients are surprised to learn that your toothbrush should be replaced once every 3 months. If you’re using your toothbrush properly (twice a day for 2-minutes per brush), you’ll find that the bristles begin to bend and fray. As bristles break down, they become less effective at cleaning your teeth.
5. Don’t forget to floss
Brushing alone isn’t enough for proper dental cleaning. You’ve got to get in between teeth, and your brush can’t always do that. Flossing is an essential practice to add to your brushing time each day. You should floss at least once a day, but more if you eat a meal that leaves something stuck in your teeth.
6. Get regular dental cleanings
Along with all your brushing and flossing, visit the dentist for a professional dental cleaning. Dental cleanings are recommended once every 6-months, but you should try to get one at least once a year. This cleaning is different from the dental cleaning you perform at home. Your dentist scrapes tartar and plaque from your teeth that you miss with your brush. They also give you a fluoride treatment and check your mouth for imperfections. Regular dental cleanings help promote long-lasting teeth and gums, keeping your oral health in tip-top shape for years to come. Your dentist may also offer advice on brushing your teeth more efficiently, as no two mouths are exactly alike.