Brushing your teeth, the right way is key to maintaining great dental health, and preventing costly repairs. You’ll find some helpful tips below.
- Get the right toothbrush and paste – Your brushing efforts are most effective when done with the correct toothbrush. A good brush has soft bristles and is small enough to comfortably fit in your mouth. Easy access to all areas of the mouth is important. Replace the brush every three months, after being ill, and when the bristles show wear. Some brushes have tinted bristles that turn white when it’s time for replacement.
- Use the right paste – Use ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste for maximum benefit (but remember to avoid fluoride for small children who may swallow more than the recommended amount).
- Use the right technique – Brushing teeth incorrectly potentially causes damage to the gums, and doesn’t properly remove plaque. Pay close attention to the gums as you brush. Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and use short back and forth or circular strokes; it will feel like a gum massage at times and that is fine. Remember the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of all teeth. Use the brush vertically (in a tilted manner) to reach the backs of the upper front teeth. The lower front teeth can accumulate more plaque on the inner side than other areas of the mouth, mostly due to the high saliva presence. Using a dry brush to massage the gums on the inside of the lower front teeth can greatly reduce that issues. Brush twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each time.
- Remember the extras – Don’t stop at brushing. The tight spaces between the teeth harbour food debris and bacteria; regular flossing combats that issue. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding unnecessary snacking between meals, and seeing your dentist for semi-annual checkups ensure the best possible health for your mouth.
Check out the customised Morrin Dental Active Maintenance program for more advice specific to your dental circumstances.