How To Brush Your Teeth Properly

Prelude

In older times, our ancestors used tree branches and twigs to clean their teeth. It was called the Miswak. With the advent of mechanical and electrical engineering came the toothbrushes and the electrical brushes. Now, we use them to keep our teeth clean and clear of cavities. Although we have been using toothbrushes for years and years now, doctors insist that we are still unaware of the proper way to brush. In this text, we discuss the medically-accepted method of maintaining our teeth.

Buy The Toothbrush That Suits You

First things first! You must buy the brand that suits you. Go to the market and get yourself a new toothbrush. The toothbrush must be well-adjusted to your age. It must also be suitable for the grip of your hand. Also, you should keep in mind the purpose for which you are getting the toothbrush. If your aim is to remove plaque, then you should buy a toothbrush with soft bristles. On the other hand, if you wish to disinfect the distant areas of your teeth, then buy a toothbrush with a shorter head.

Choose The Right Toothpaste

Make sure you use an ADA accepted Fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is very effective in fighting decay. However, parents must supervise their children and ensure that they use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste until they are seven years old. There are some kinds of toothpaste that are specifically designed for particular conditions like cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth and sensitivity. Ask your doctor or dental specialist which toothpaste is best for you. Keep in mind that the toothpaste you have bought meets ADA criteria. While shopping, look for the ADA seal on fluoride toothpaste, toothbrushes, oral irrigators, mouth fresheners, mouth rinses, and floss.

Take Your Time

You must invest your time and make toothbrushing a priority in your schedule. Allocate at least 2-3 mins twice a day for brushing your teeth. This may sound like a short period of time. You would be surprised to know that the average person falls short of this duration. I think it is only sensible to stop brushing when your teeth are crystal clear and the plaque has been removed. If you really want to achieve the two-min goal, try using a stopwatch or get an electric toothbrush with a timer.

Employ The Proper Brushing Technique

Now that you have bought suitable toothbrush and toothpaste, you must know how to properly go about brushing.

• Hold your brush at an angle of 45 degrees to your gums. This orientation of your toothbrush is best suited to remove bacteria.
• Gently move the brush to and fro in short strokes making circular patterns.
• Remember to brush your teeth thoroughly. Brush along all the surfaces including the inside of the teeth. Cover the outer, inner and the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Clean the inside surfaces of the teeth by keeping the toothbrush in a vertical position.
• Clean between teeth to remove bacteria. Tooth decay-causing germs still linger between the teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. So try to access those far-off areas and remove food particles from between the teeth.
• Brush carefully around any dental implants, restoration and root canals that you had in the past.
• Don’t forget your tongue. The tongue is a part that most people skip. In the end, remember to brush your tongue. Some toothbrushes come with a tongue-cleaner on the back. You can buy one of those or simply use your regular toothbrush to gently scrub your tongue. This will effectively disinfect your tongue leading to fresher breath.
• Don’t miss the hard-to-reach back teeth. You must brush your teeth in a thorough manner. Remember to brush your back teeth. They are actively involved in chewing so they must be free of plaque and debris.

Use A Powered Toothbrush If Necessary

If you have a physical disability that renders you incapable of using a manual toothbrush, you should buy an electric toothbrush. For instance, patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome usually use a powered toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes come in a wide variety of sizes. You can choose one according to your size.

Be Gentle With Yourself

Some people make the mistake of treating their teeth like a warpath. Be gentle with your teeth. Brush softly in a circular motion. Use short, precise strokes.

Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

You must replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. Dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every three months. You should buy a new toothbrush as soon as its bristles are frayed or the toothbrush begins to show signs of wear. The age of a toothbrush affects its performance so change your toothbrush frequently. Doctors also advise a change of toothbrush after you have had a cold or an infection of the oral cavity. Using the same toothbrush after recovery can lead to reinfection.

Maintain Your Teeth By Eating A Balanced Diet

Eat a balanced diet that contains less amount of sugars and fats. Don’t eat too much junk food and snacks. Avoid jellies or adhesive food items that may get stuck between them. If you eat healthy and organic, you will have to make less of an effort to maintain your dental hygiene.

Read our more detailed article: Foods That Are Good For Your Teeth And Gums

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Talk to your dentist if you experience pain or swelling in any of your gums. Don’t ignore the pain. Visit a well-reputed dentist and seek his counsel. If he suggests an implant or root canal, follow through with the procedure. Regularly visit for follow-ups. Take his advice as to the products you should use for your teeth and oral cavity.

Consider Flossing Your Teeth

Flossing your teeth with a thread or just water can be very effective in removing any tiny particles. It can add to the shine of your teeth and the beauty of your smile.

Conclusion

In this article, We pave the road to brighter teeth and broader smiles. Brushing your teeth is an imperative part of your health care routine. It can be very fruitful if done accurately. Follow the steps mentioned above to do it the doctor’s way. Brush faithfully and regularly. That way, you get to keep them brighter and longer. All the best!