It’s pretty common knowledge that one of the most important ways to maintain good oral hygiene is to brush your teeth twice a day. However, many people brush their teeth incorrectly without even realizing it. This can not only allow plaque and bacteria to build up and lead to cavities, but incorrect brushing can also potentially cause damage to tooth enamel. Here are some helpful suggestions to make sure you get the most out of your brushing time.
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Many people mistakenly think that stiffer bristles will get teeth cleaner, but the reality is that tough bristles can actually damage the tooth enamel and irritate the gums. Brushing with bristles that are sturdy enough to remove plaque but soft enough so they don’t damage the teeth is the best start to a healthy mouth.
Do Not Brush Too Hard
Pressing the bristles against your teeth too hard or brushing too vigorously can erode tooth enamel. You can get your teeth just as clean without damaging them by safely using gentle brush strokes with the right technique.
Angle Your Toothbrush Toward the Gum Line
For brushing the inner and outer surfaces of your teeth, position your toothbrush so that the bristles are at a 45-degree angle and pointed toward the gum line. This will help remove stubborn plaque from along the gum line.
Use Vertical or Circular Strokes
Avoid brushing with horizontal strokes across the teeth. Vertical or circular strokes will work better to remove plaque by getting into the crevices of the teeth. Don’t forget to brush every surface of your teeth – the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces – as well as the gums.
Brush for 2 Minutes
Brushing your teeth for an entire 2 minutes with the proper technique is a great way to guarantee that your teeth get thoroughly cleaned. Dividing the mouth into quadrants and brushing each for 30 seconds will ensure that you spend an equal amount of time on each section of your mouth.
Floss Daily
While brushing your teeth correctly is very important to your oral health, brushing alone is insufficient for reaching areas between the teeth. Flossing at least once a day is essential for preventing gum disease and tooth loss because it is the only effective way to remove plaque from between the teeth.
If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health, please contact Dr. Kevin B. Sands, DDS, at his Beverly Hills cosmetic dentistry office. Please feel free to call (310) 273-0111 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sands.