Brushing your teeth seems simple enough, but doing it correctly is an essential part of protecting your health and your appearance. If you want a healthy, sparkling smile, take a moment to reevaluate your teeth brushing habits.
How often should you brush your teeth?
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, but for best results you should brush them after every meal. Keep a spare toothbrush at work, in your gym locker, or in your purse to make it easy to brush your teeth throughout the day.
When should you brush your teeth?
Brushing your teeth right after a meal is better than not brushing your teeth at all, but in many cases, it is best to wait thirty minutes before brushing.
If you have time, rinse out your mouth after your meal and then wait for half an hour to brush your teeth. If you brush your teeth immediately after eating something acidic, you could work the acid into your enamel. Waiting for a few minutes also allows your saliva to go to work killing harmful bacteria. Saliva is one of your body’s most important tools for protecting your mouth.
What kind of toothbrush should you be using?
Brushing your teeth is very important, but brushing them too hard can damage the enamel and hurt your gums. In most cases, you should use a soft bristled toothbrush instead of a hard bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth without damaging them. It is also wise to choose bristles with rounded tips.
Electric powered toothbrushes and manual toothbrushes can both be used to effectively clean your teeth. Make your choice based on personal preference and budget. Replace the toothbrush head or toothbrush every 3-4 months for best results.
What technique should you use while brushing?
When you brush your teeth, hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and move it in small circles over your teeth. Brush your teeth using toothpaste with fluoride and continue brushing for at least 2 minutes. When you brush your teeth, you should also take time to floss, clean your tongue, and rinse your mouth with a bacteria-killing mouthwash.
To learn more about cleaning your teeth, schedule an appointment with Dr. Lee.