Brushing our teeth is something we do every day, so we assume we know how to do it. Surprisingly, many people are brushing incorrectly. Here are some tips on how to brush your teeth for cleanliness your dentist will notice.
- For starters, a proper brushing takes at least two minutes. Listening to a song during brushing can help remind your children (or even yourself) to brush long enough to get the job done right. You can also use a stopwatch until you get a feel for how long to brush. Some electric toothbrushes have timers to let you know when two minutes are up.
- It’s best to start by brushing the outer surfaces of your upper and lower teeth, then brush the inner surfaces of your upper and lower teeth, and finish up with the chewing surfaces. To help prevent bad breath, you may want to brush your tongue. When brushing, use short, back-and-forth strokes to ensure you are covering all surfaces. Don’t forget to always brush near the gum line because that is where plaque often builds up.
- Choosing the right toothbrush is important for maintaining your teeth and gum health. We recommend using a soft-bristled brush and a brush with a smaller head in order to get into those hard-to-reach places. Many people prefer electric toothbrushes, and they often do make brushing easier and more efficient. Always make sure to replace your toothbrush every three months or after you’ve been sick!
- The American Dental Hygienists Association has a very valuable diagram that gives step-by-step instructions on how to brush and also includes helpful pictures. We also provide professional cleaning at Klooster Family Dentistry. This helps remove plaque and tartar build up and only takes 20 to 30 minutes.
We would love to answer any questions you may have about proper brushing techniques. Contact us and schedule an appointment with Klooster Family Dentistry today.