Sometimes our brushing becomes a mindless habit, and teeth don’t get as clean as they should. Here are steps to make sure you are brushing properly.
Brush Strokes: Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum, and make short, back-and-forth strokes, about tooth-wide. Be sure to brush the outer surface, the inner surface, and the chewing surface of all your teeth! To clean the inner surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush at a steep angle vertically and use multiple up-and-down strokes.
2×2: Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day. If you are just getting back in the habit, try playing a favorite song, or setting a timer. The habit gets easier with consistent practice, and the payoff is huge! Regular brushing can be a major part of healthy oral hygiene practices.
Floss: Brushing alone isn’t enough for complete oral hygiene. Flossing once a day can greatly improve one’s dental health by removing food particles that can cause plaque build-up. Flossing should take 2-3 minutes per session, and follow correct flossing technique. If you have a hard time with conventional floss, other interdental cleaners may be appropriate. Talk to your dentist about your options for correct interdental cleaning that fits your health needs.
Balanced Diet: Did you know that the foods you eat (and when you eat them) directly affect your dental health? Eat a balanced diet with adequate calcium and phosphorus, and try to avoid between-meal snacking to better protect your teeth.
Remember, proper brushing is a lifelong healthy habit! For more tips on preventative oral hygiene techniques, contact Gentle Touch Dental at 770-760-7566. We are located in Conyers, Georgia. We look forward to helping keep your smile bright!