Brushing and flossing may be second nature to you, but are you doing it correctly? Although that seems like a “stupid” question, you’d be surprised how many people do not know how to effectively brush their teeth. Brushing for two minutes is the recommended amount of time to remove plaque and debris. From there, over and under two minutes can be detrimental to your oral health. The less you brush, the more food and plaque you leave on your teeth, the longer you brush the more damage you can cause to your gums.
If you’re in need of some help on the basics of oral hygiene, here are some tips to move your health forward.
When you brush your teeth, you should avoid using a lot of pressure. It is most effective to use short, circular motions, with gentle strokes. When you’re brushing, you should put a focus on the hard to reach places. The spaces in between your teeth should be a main priority, too, as this is a main settling place for plaque which then turns into tartar.
Along with using the proper brushing techniques, you should make it a point to focus on the type of toothbrush and toothpaste.
To get the most out of brushing, a good toothbrush is essential. You should find the best option for you, but when picking, soft bristles are highly recommended. The soft bristles of a toothbrush still clean your teeth well, but do not do harm to the gums. A small head on the toothbrush is also preferred, because it can then easily reach hard to get places, such as your back teeth.
There are a lot of varieties of toothpastes, as well. Toothpastes are made with dental issues in mind, so search for one with your unique needs. Whether you need a teeth whitening version, or a sensitive paste, it will help clean your teeth, without doing harm.
There are many good tips on brushing your teeth. If you have more questions on how to make the best choices, you can always contact your dentist to ensure you’re getting the clean you’re looking for. Set up an appointment with your dentist for routine cleanings, and you’ll be on the road to great oral hygiene.
