Are you wondering how to brush your teeth correctly? You will be astonished to find out that you have just been doing it wrong the whole time. The entire process of brushing your teeth may look simple but without the right techniques, it becomes a hard task. You just put a toothpaste on your brush and pass the brush over your teeth for a minute or so and you are done, right? WRONG!
The main reason that we brush our teeth is to eliminate the constant build up of plaque that occurs naturally after a few hours. Plaque is formed by a mixture of saliva, bacteria and food particles. If it is left to calcify, a substance that is harder to be taken off forms and this becomes a recipe for disaster.
Brushing Your Teeth
The hardened plaque may need the help of a dentist in order to get rid of it. For this reason, it is very important that you know how to brush your teeth properly.
The entire process of brushing your teeth should be made into a daily affair. However, as observed, most of the people do not follow the American Dental Association’s brushing guidelines that govern the cleaning of teeth properly.
The dental body indicates that you should brush your teeth at least twice in a single day. This can be in the morning and at night or after every meal. When brushing your teeth, the brush should be at a 45 degree angle to your gum line.
When brushing, all the debris should be removed from all the reachable places of your teeth. Do not forget, near the gum lines, at the back of the teeth, as well as the chewing areas. Furthermore, your tongue should be thoroughly cleaned using the brush. Harmful bacteria usually accumulates here and causes reeking breath.
Did You Know?
The type of toothbrush that you use for brushing your teeth highly influences your oral health. The American Dental Association advises one to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a head that is ergonomically balanced to the inside of your mouth.
It is a common misconception that the medium or hard-bristle toothbrushes are more efficient. The brushes are not good at all because they can cause abrasion of the gums and teeth. This makes the chances of them getting infected high.
The Dentist in Aurora Recommends that the toothbrush should be replaced at least 4 times in a year. Also, when the bristles become frayed, it’s time to let them go.
Should I Change My Brushing Habits?
The Aurora Dentist advises one to change their brushing habits if you are having poor oral hygiene. Some of the symptoms include red gums, bleeding, the buildup of excess plaque and gum lines that are receding.
Is there Anything That I Should Add to My Brushing?
Flossing should be done after brushing your teeth. It supplements the brushing and reaches in locations where a brush cannot easily reach. Toothpaste that has fluoride should also be used all the time.
In addition, you should be going for regular dental exams and cleaning at least twice in a year or after 6 months. For more information on brushing your teeth, contact the Dentist in Aurora and you will consult further.