Are You Brushing Your Teeth Correctly?
By: Jessica Stack | Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 | Oral Health
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015
Hopefully you brush and floss your teeth every day, but it never hurts to check your habits and make sure you are doing things the best way.
Here’s what you should know about brushing your teeth?
How often should you brush your teeth?
You should brush your teeth after each meal. To make it easier to keep your teeth clean during the day, keep a toothbrush and toothpaste in your purse, glove box, or desk drawer.
How long should it take to brush your teeth?
You should be brushing your teeth for at least two minutes. Use a timer to keep yourself on track and make sure you are brushing for as long as needed.
What kind of toothpaste should you use?
There are many types of toothpaste available. If you have a special issue, ask your dentist for advice. Normal toothpastes all have a few of the same types of ingredients—abrasives to dislodge particles, detergents to create bubbles, fluoride to keep your teeth strong, and mint oil for flavor.
What kind of toothbrush should you get?
In most cases, you should get a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles. Choosing between a traditional toothbrush and a battery powered toothbrush is mostly up to personal preference. If you aren’t sure which type of toothbrush would be best, ask your dentist for advice.
What are common mistakes people make?
Although most people brush their teeth every day, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid:
- Don’t brush your teeth too hard. This can actually damage the enamel and leave you more vulnerable to infection.
- Don’t brush without flossing. Flossing is just as important as brushing. It may help to floss before you brush your teeth.
- Don’t move the toothbrush back and forth. In most cases, it is better to move your toothbrush in small circles.
- Don’t skip dental cleanings because you have good oral hygiene at home. No matter how well you clean your teeth, there are some places that you will have trouble reaching. The dentist has tools to reach difficult areas and clean your mouth more thoroughly than you ever could at home.
To learn more about caring for your mouth, schedule a checkup with Dr. Price.
