Regular — and thorough — brushing is essential for a healthy smile.
It’s no secret that regular brushing is key to maintaining optimal oral health. But when it comes to getting the most out of your oral hygiene routine, your technique is just as important as the regularity with which you brush your teeth. If you would like to improve your brushing technique in order to keep health issues at bay and enjoy a clean, beautiful smile, read on for our top tips…
1. Brush for two minutes each time
In order to really get rid of plaque, food particles and other debris that may be stuck between your teeth and along your gum line, it is important that you brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day. If you find it difficult to get to two minutes, try playing a song to pass the time and take your mind off the task.
2. Brush gently
You may have the best intentions when you brush your teeth vigorously, but the reality is that you can actually do more harm than good by using too much pressure. Rough and aggressive brushing can damage the enamel of your teeth, as well as your soft gum tissue, which can, in turn, lead to gum irritation, tooth sensitivity and dental erosion. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and use firm, but gentle pressure to ensure that you are cleaning thoroughly without causing any harm.
3. Use an effective technique
When it comes to your actual brushing technique, one of the most effective methods involves removing plaque from underneath your gums before it can harden into tartar. To do so, hold your toothbrush parallel to your teeth before tilting the toothbrush to a 45-degree angle. Position the toothbrush so that the bristles sit slightly under the gum line and then brush back and forth gently. Brush between 15 and 20 times before moving on to the next area, making sure that you cover all the surfaces of your teeth. Don’t forget about the chewing surfaces of your teeth right at the back of the mouth, as well as the surface of the tongue.
4. Update your tools
While a proper brushing technique will go a long way in keeping your teeth clean, it is also worth choosing good quality oral hygiene products that are comfortable to use. It is advisable that you use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a head that is small enough to comfortably reach all the areas of your mouth. Also, remember that you should replace your toothbrush every few months or as soon as you notice frayed or loose bristles. When choosing a toothpaste, opt for one that contains fluoride and chat to your dentist if you need recommendations for products that are formulated to address specific oral health concerns.
5. Know the signs of poor hygiene
If you are brushing regularly and correctly, your teeth should be free from plaque and other debris. If, however, you notice a visible build-up of plaque, as well as bleeding and/or tender gums, it could be a sign that you need to improve your oral hygiene techniques.
It is advisable that you see your dentist for regular check-ups so that they can provide you with a professional clean, as well as with advice on how to improve your own brushing and flossing techniques.
How can we help?
At Somerset Dental Care, we are committed to helping our patients maintain healthy smiles for life. For this reason, we are available to address any questions or concerns regarding your oral health and hygiene habits. We also encourage our patients to come in and see us for regular check-ups and professional cleans, so that we can identify and resolve any problems as soon as possible.
To find out about the range of dentistry services that we offer at Somerset Dental Care, please have a look here.
To make an appointment, please get in touch here or give us a call on 02 4648 0909.
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