Brushing your teeth is essential to good oral health. It helps to protect both your gums and teeth by removing plaque and bacteria. But, if done incorrectly, it may not be working for you the way it should.
Our collective knowledge of dental and oral health is increasing all the time, and that includes the basics – like tooth brushing techniques. Previous generations have learned a range of different ways to brush their teeth, meaning that what Mom taught you may not be considered the best way anymore.
Here’s a look at the best way to brush your teeth, according to the latest recommendations.
1. Hold your brush at about a 45 degree angle, and place it where the teeth and gums meet.
2. Brush gently using a circular motion, from the gum line to the outside edge of the tooth.
3. Use the same kind of circular motion to clean the bottom and inside surface of the tooth.
4. Remember to get the back side of the molars, and try to swish between your teeth as well as gently scouring the surface. Interdental brushes are specially designed to reach between teeth to clean – the area where most cavities begin.
5. When you are done with your teeth, brush your tongue. Yes, it feels funny, but plaque can also form here.
Remember:
• Take your time—and don’t be in a rush. You can only benefit from tooth brushing if you do it consistently, and cover the whole surface of your teeth. It should still only take two or three minutes.
• Be gentle—receding gums are often the result of years of brushing too hard and/or with a brush that it too hard.
Just a Reminder:
Daily brushing is crucial to your oral health. Busy schedules and often long commutes can discourage you from regular tooth brushing, but there is no short cut to good oral health.
• Brushing helps remove the bacteria that causes cavities.
• Brushing helps remove plaque – the sticky film that forms naturally on your teeth through ordinary activities, and where millions of bacteria make their home, using sugar to cause tooth decay and gum disease.
• Adults should brush at least twice a day, and after every meal if possible. The single most important time is just before you go to bed, so you don’t allow more plaque to develop while you sleep. Why not make brushing part of your workplace lunch routine too with a travel toothbrush kit for the office?
• An electric toothbrush can do the work for you.
If you have any questions or concerns about brushing your teeth, or a recommendation for an electric toothbrush, your dentist is the right person to ask. You’ll find the answers at Dr. F. Keshavarz Dentistry in Brampton, ON.
If you’re looking for a well-regarded and highly skilled dentist in the Brampton area, make an appointment with Dr. F. Keshavarz Dentistry by calling (905)-791-3867. Visit our website to learn more about our dental services.
