We know, you’ve probably been brushing your teeth for decades, but still, it can’t hurt to revisit some common practices, right? Let’s discuss a few key factors that matter when you brush!
The Right Toothbrush:
Yes, making sure you’re using the proper toothbrush can be a game changer. When you are shopping for a brush, consider one with soft bristles that fits your mouth. If you have a smaller mouth, choose a brush with a smaller head. Remember, your toothbrush is only good until it begins to fray; upgrade your brush every 3 months, or when you see aging.
When it comes to toothpaste, purchase one with fluoride and the ADA seal.
Timing is Everything:
Brushing directly after eating is a no-no. When we eat, the pH balance in our mouth becomes acidic. By allowing 30 minutes to pass, while drinking plenty of water, this will allow your mouth to rinse any acidic saliva and adjust back to its normal environment.
Brushing too soon after eating can damage the enamel of your teeth; this is because the acid in your mouth combined with brushing may be a bit harsh on your pearly whites. Take care to brush at least 30 minutes after eating, and always remember, the brushing process should take two minutes.
The Method:
Step 1: Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and begin with the outer and inner surfaces; use short strokes to brush along your gum line and don’t forget to give the back of your mouth some love.
Step 2: Hold the brush parallel to the ground to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
Step 3: Angle your brush vertically to hit the backs of your teeth; practice up-and-down strokes with the tip of your brush.
Step 4: Don’t forget about your tongue! This part of your mouth holds food particles and odor-causing bacteria. Clean your tongue by producing a sweeping motion, brushing back-to-front.
Step 5: Rinse with mouthwash! It’s common to think water will do the trick, but this will diminish any tooth-strengthening fluoride that is sitting on the surface of your chompers.
Variety is a Good Thing:
Divide your teeth into four quadrants—bottom right, bottom left, top right, and top left. Every time you brush, switch up your routine; if you brush each quadrant in the same order each time, there is more room for laziness as you go!
Floss!:
Floss daily. Brushing is important, but flossing will keep your teeth and gums happy.
As long as you are practicing these methods, we guarantee you will have a healthy, glowing smile!
