A proper brushing routine is the cornerstone of good oral hygiene, essential for maintaining a healthy smile. In this blog, we're going back to the basics with Brushing 101 to provide helpful tips and techniques to ensure your teeth receive the thorough cleaning they deserve.
Understanding the Basics of Tooth Brushing
Tooth brushing is not just about freshening your breath; it's about removing plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. This plaque can lead to cavities and gum disease if left unchecked. You should brush your teeth at least twice daily to combat it effectively.
Selecting the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Opt for an electric toothbrush, ideally a Phillips Sonicare, with the best studies supporting it. It does more brush strokes in 2 minutes than we can achieve manually with a regular brush in months! You don’t need the bells and whistles option, but there are lots of good deals out there for this brush.
We recommend a soft-bristle toothbrush with a comfortable grip if using a manual brush. The size of the toothbrush head should allow you to reach all areas of your mouth easily (like the cheek side of the upper backmost teeth or the tongue side of the bottom backmost teeth).
Toothpaste
Look for fluoride-containing toothpaste that is not abrasive to the enamel. Fluoride helps strengthen your enamel and prevent tooth decay. The best over-the-counter toothpaste is Sensodyne, which has ingredients that help with tooth sensitivity.
Proper Brushing Technique
Angle Matters
When brushing your teeth, holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums is essential. This helps to clean the gumline, where plaque tends to accumulate. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on your teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, leading to gum disease.
Circular Motions
Use gentle circular motions to brush your teeth. Avoid scrubbing back and forth, as this can damage your enamel and irritate your gums. Enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth that protects them from decay. Gums are the tissues that surround and support your teeth. When gums are irritated, they can become inflamed and bleed easily.
Thorough Coverage
Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. Make sure to reach all surfaces, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. Brushing your tongue to remove bacteria and prevent bad breath is also important.
Duration
Aim for a minimum of two minutes when brushing your teeth. You can break this down into 30-second intervals, brushing each quadrant of your mouth for 30 seconds. This will help ensure that you are brushing your teeth thoroughly.
Don't Forget Your Tongue and Gums
Don't forget to clean your tongue to remove bacteria and prevent bad breath. You can use your toothbrush or a tongue scraper to do this. Be sure to brush your gums gently, as they are delicate tissues.
Regular Dental Check-ups are Important
In addition to your daily brushing routine, regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Your dentist can spot early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other issues that may require intervention.
These check-ups, typically recommended every six months, also include professional cleanings to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that regular brushing may have missed.
Conclusion
Achieving a healthy smile starts with the basics of proper brushing. By selecting the right toothbrush and toothpaste, mastering the correct brushing technique, and dedicating the recommended time to your routine, you can effectively remove plaque, prevent tooth decay, and maintain your oral health.
At Atlantic Dental, we understand that every patient's oral health needs are unique. We're dedicated to helping you achieve a vibrant, healthy smile. Contact us today to embark on your journey toward optimal oral health. Our team of true professionals is here to support you every step of the way.
