General Dentistry: 4 Tips from a Dentist on Effective Toothbrushing

Providing patients with a basic understanding of effective toothbrushing is the foundation of dentistry. Being proactive in protecting your oral health helps to prevent gum disease, cavities, and other potential complications.

Learn how to brush your teeth effectively

Consider these four tips to follow in your daily toothbrushing routine.

1. Use the correct tools

A soft-bristled toothbrush removes plaque and bacteria while being gentle on your teeth and gums. A battery-operated electric toothbrush is often more effective at cleaning in between teeth and preventing minor gum disease such as gingivitis. Bacteria are found on your tongue as well. Another important tool, often overlooked, is the tongue scraper. If you do not have one, you can brush the tongue with your toothbrush as well.

Fluoride toothpaste is typically recommended in dentistry. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to prevent cavities and tooth decay. It also strengthens the tooth enamel and protects it from erosion caused by acid, which can be found in foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes. Coffee, tea, wine, and soft drinks are also highly acidic and can damage tooth enamel.

2. Be consistent

Brush your teeth consistently twice each day, once in the morning and once at night. Proper cleaning requires a minimum of two minutes for the entire mouth. Underbrushing can result in leftover bacteria or plaque, while overbrushing can cause gum irritation. Do not brush directly after eating. If you had something acidic to eat or drink, just rinse with water right after.

3. Employ the right techniques

There are several key elements to the proper toothbrushing technique. To start, hold your brush at a 45-degree angle. This allows for optimum reach with the right amount of pressure. As you brush, make sure your strokes are the width of the tooth, and brush in a circular motion while moving back and forth. Brush both sides of each tooth, as well as the top part that is used to chew, and hold the brush vertically to reach the backs of your front teeth.

Remember to floss once a day. Flossing at night before bed removes the buildup that accumulates between the teeth during the day. Most cavities occur between the teeth, and skipping this step makes you more susceptible. According to the American Dental Association, flossing is an important part of preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

4. Take care of your tools

A topic often overlooked in dentistry is how to take the proper care of your tools. Your toothbrush should be replaced everything three months. If the bristles begin to fray or spread apart before, replace it then.

When you finish brushing, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly and dry it before putting it away. Place it upright to allow excess water to drain away from the head. Keep it a safe distance from other brushes and always leave it uncapped.