How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
Studies have shown that most adults do not spend enough time brushing their teeth. That quick 30-second brushing job you do before you rush out the door in the morning is not enough to help keep your teeth and gums healthy for life. You should ideally spend two minutes or more brushing your teeth, methodically covering every tooth surface. Slowing down just a little to clean your teeth properly will prevent you from having to slow down a lot for lengthy dental treatments down the road. Here’s what you need to know about proper teeth brushing.
- Floss before you brush to remove any stubborn food particles between teeth.
- Brush at least twice a day.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging gum tissue and tooth enamel.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste, which helps protect teeth from decay. If you have any special dental needs, such as tartar or sensitive teeth, Fresno dentist, Dr. Denes can recommend an appropriate toothpaste for you.
- Place only a pea-sized dab of toothpaste on your brush. The amount seen on toothpaste commercials is excessive and, since many whitening toothpastes contain abrasives, may cause tooth enamel erosion if overused.
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle.
- Brush one tooth at a time, using small circular motions.
- Be sure to cover the front, back and chewing surfaces of all the upper and lower teeth, paying special attention to the gumline.
- Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. You may want to set a timer or brush for the full length of a song on the radio.
- Don’t forget to brush your tongue, which harbors most of the bacteria and food particles that cause bad breath.
- Rinse your mouth with water.
- Replace your toothbrush about every three months or sooner if the bristles start to fray. You should also replace your toothbrush after you’ve had a cold or other infection to avoid re-infecting yourself.
For more information on proper oral care or to schedule your next dental cleaning, call Drs. Alex Denes and Claudia Denes today at (559) 297-1800. Fresno Dental Studio serves patients in Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Mendota, Orange Cove, Reedley, Selma, and the surrounding areas.