Toothbrush Tips

Brush Up on the Facts

Brushing your teeth is one of the best ways to ensure your oral health for years to come. However, there are right ways and wrong ways to brush your teeth. Below is a list of toothbrush tips—from buying to brushing and everything in between.

Picking a Tooth Brush

Picking a tooth brush may not seem all that important, but it is actually a pretty serious choice. Your tooth brush is something you use every single day! You’ll want one that will serve you well! This means buying a brush whose bristles aren’t too tough. Hard bristled brushes can damage your gums and put unnecessary wear-and-tear on your enamel. Too soft of bristles, on the other hand, may not be tough enough on plaque. Go for something in the middle with about a one-inch long head. Electric toothbrushes are great options if they are in your price range. The added movement helps address more plaque than regular brushing.

Brushing Technique

The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice per day for about two minutes at a time. Make sure to brush in small circles rather than up and down or side to side. Angle the brush at 45-degree angle Use a toothpaste with fluoride in it. Fluoride helps keep your teeth strong and healthy. Also make sure while brushing to cover all your bases! Get the outer and inner surfaces of each tooth, along the gum lines, and your tongue!

When To Discard

Discard your toothbrush when the bristles start to fray. A good rule of thumb is about every two months. Also replace your tooth brush after you get over being sick. Your toothbrush can harbor bacteria or viruses that can re-infect you once you’ve gotten over a sickness. Throw it out and get a new one just to be on the safe side.

Brushing Isn’t the Only Thing

Brushing is great, but alone it is not effective. You need to pair brushing with flossing, mouthwash, and regular trips to the dentist to ensure proper dental health. Without flossing, you miss cleaning 30% of your tooth’s surface. Adding mouthwash to your routine can be an effective way of combatting plaque and bacteria—not to mention it leaves your breath smelling great! Lastly, make sure that you visit your dentist regularly to check for any issues you can’t detect yourself and to make sure you’ve been properly taking care of your teeth!