Brushing your teeth is the foundation of good dental practices. The American Dental Association recommends that everyone should brush for two minutes, twice a day. There is, however, a specific technique that you should use when brushing your teeth. It’s easy for the act to become mindless, but making sure you’re paying attention to the details will ensure that you’re doing your best to prevent tooth decay and the onset of gum disease! So whether you never learned the proper way to brush, or simply need a refresher, here’s how to brush your teeth just like a dentist does!
Gather the Proper Tools
Any workman can tell you – you always need the right tools for the right job. It’s no different with brushing your teeth! Making sure you have the right tools for the job will help ensure you’re protecting your teeth well.
The basics you need for brushing your teeth include:
- A manual or electric toothbrush
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Floss
The bristles on toothbrushes wear out over time through use, and this damage can diminish the effectiveness of the brush in cleaning out your teeth. Therefore you should replace your manual toothbrush (or the head of an electric toothbrush) every three to four months. And you should absolutely use fluoride toothpaste from age 7 and up, as it is integral in protecting against tooth decay. For children ages 6 and lower, consider using it if you know they won’t swallow the toothpaste.
The Process
Here’s the professional, tried and true process for brushing your teeth effectively!
- Lubricate the brush with some water and put a small amount of toothpaste on it.
- Insert the brush into the mouth and brush the front of the teeth gently at a 45 degree angle, using short circular motions.
- Brush the top, outside parts of the teeth, again using short, gentle, circular motions. Be sure to get the back teeth too!
- Flip the brush upside down and brush the inside parts of the teeth.
- Brush the tongue, as this is a prime place for the build-up of bacteria!
Time yourself until you get a feel for how long two minutes is – it may seem long at first, but soon it will be second nature! Spit out the toothpaste into a clean sink and complete the process by rinsing your mouth out with cold water. After this, use floss to clean the spaces between the teeth and rinse again. Use mouthwash after flossing, if you would like!
Catonsville Dental Care is The Best Choice for Your Dental Health
Catonsville Dental Care offers a wide variety of services when it comes to oral health. We have the experience and understanding to diagnose and treat any problem you have as quickly and painlessly as possible. With four dentists available at our office and a commitment to comfort, safety, and relaxation, you can’t find a better provider for your health. We look forward to helping you keep your smile perfect all year long and talking with you about your needs. To schedule an appointment or consultation, visit us online or give us a call at 410-747-1115. For more tips and tricks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, and YouTube.