Brushing your teeth is a very important part of our overall dental health routine. We do it so often that we may not think about the right way to brush that ensures its maximum benefits. It can be easy to slip into poor tooth-brushing habits over time, which can damage your gums and result in teeth that are not as clean as they could be. Continue reading to learn more about the right way to brush and achieve a healthy mouth and smile.
Proper Brushing Technique
Brush for two minutes: You should be brushing for up to two minutes, dividing the time among the different sections of your mouth, including the upper left, lower left, upper right, and lower right, taking 30 seconds per section.
Position the brush: Your toothbrush should be angled at the gumline (where the gums meet the teeth). This is a prime area for plaque and bacteria to accumulate, which can result in inflamed gums, gum disease and tooth loss if not removed properly. Try to remember to keep the bristles at a 45-degree angle, as opposed to perpendicular to the teeth.
Brush in circles: You should rotate the bristles in tiny, sweeping circular motions to further help remove decay-causing debris from the teeth and gumline.
Be gentle: Avoid rigorously or harshly brushing. Doing so can cause irritation to the gums. Instead, be gentle when you brush to receive the same benefits without the damage.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly: Rinsing washes away the toothpaste and debris. Don’t forget to give your toothbrush a thorough rinsing as well.
Observe your gums: When you have finished brushing your teeth, take a look at your gums to check for redness or swelling. If you do find that your gums are irritated after you brush, it can mean you are not being gentle enough; however, it could also indicate a more serious problem, such as gum disease.
Brushing Tips
- Understand the incentives. Brushing removes food particles and bacteria, which can develop into plaque before hardening into tartar if not removed by proper brushing.
- Brush twice a day. It is recommended that you brush twice a day to maintain a clean, healthy mouth.
- Brush without distractions. When you are distracted while brushing, you can end up not brushing long enough, brushing too roughly, or using an improper technique.
Healthy Smiles at Porter Dental Clinic
The experts at Porter Dental Health Clinic are committed to keeping your smile healthy. To schedule an appointment, contact our clinic today.
