Brushing your teeth is perhaps the most important thing you can do for your oral hygiene. Most people think they have a good grasp on how to brush, but there may be a few little ways you can improve your brushing that will help with your oral health. Here are three simple ways you can improve how you brush your teeth.
Use the Right Tools
There are two tools involved in brushing: a toothbrush and toothpaste. The first way to improve your brushing is to get a new toothbrush. If you prefer a manual brush, you want to make sure you’re using one with soft bristles. Hard, stiff bristles can hurt your gums, especially if you apply too much pressure. You may also want to try switching to a powered toothbrush. They can be a good option if you have difficulty using a regular manual toothbrush. The second way to improve your brushing is to switch toothpaste. There are some differences in what goes into toothpaste. Some help to control gingivitis, while other options help prevent cavities by including extra fluoride.
Brush for the Right Amount of Time
Some people rush through their brushing. Even those who take their time may not be brushing long enough to hit every spot. You should spend at least two minutes brushing, one minute for the top and one for the bottom. If you don’t brush for this amount of time, you’re likely leaving behind bacteria, plaque, and other debris. This can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and other oral health problems that will require our help to deal with. If you’re not certain if you’re brushing long enough, time yourself. If you’re significantly under the two-minute mark, you might try setting a timer or playing a song you know is about two minutes long. If you need any other tips for brushing, you can always call us or bring them up during your next cleaning.
