By the time we turn ten years old, most of us feel pretty confident in how we are brushing our teeth. Our parents told us to brush twice each day, so we did. If you were one of the unlucky kids who had additional dental or orthodontal work done, you might have been even more well-versed in dental hygiene. Not all of us stayed on track with our dental habits, however. So if you are ready for a healthy mouth and smile, keep reading for the best practices for brushing your teeth!
Set Aside Your Assumptions
It may be a logical assumption that the more you brush, the healthier your teeth will be. These assumptions are false. The more you brush, the more you soften and scrape off the enamel on your teeth. Enamel cannot be regrown or put back on, so protecting this is essential in having a healthy mouth. Instead of brushing a lot throughout the day, make sure you brush intentionally and with the right tools and techniques.
- Frequency. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice per day for 2 minutes each time.
- Tools. Buy a toothbrush with soft bristles and replace it every 3-4 months or whenever you recover from an illness. Medium-hard bristled brushes will damage the surface of your teeth.
- Technique. Begin at the gum line and brush at a 45-degree angle in tiny circles. Make sure to cover the entire surface of each tooth. Be sure to brush gently and not to put too much pressure on your toothbrush. Follow this routine with flossing in between every tooth at least once per day.
- An Extra Step. If you want to go the extra mile for dental health, you can choose products that have received the American Dental Association’s ‘Seal of Acceptance.’ That list can be found here.
Be a Frequent Flyer with Your Dentist
In addition to practicing the best tips and techniques for brushing your teeth, it is essential to follow up with your dentist at least twice per year for a cleaning, exam, and set of x-rays (if needed). Regular dental visits are not only all an opportunity for a hygienist to clean off cavity-causing tartar buildup, but it allows the dentist to detect, diagnose, and treat things like tooth decay, infection, and any underlying illness or disease of the mouth and throat.
We would love to see you at Colorado Dental Group. New patients can schedule an initial exam for only $59. So please schedule an appointment and let us help you get on the right track for a beautiful, healthy smile.