Many Americans are taught dental homecare during elementary school. Some may remember chewing the red, bubble-gum-flavored tablets that show where you missed plaque after brushing. How many years ago was that lesson for you? Here’s a quick re-FRESH-er course on how to properly brush your teeth.
This lesson, appropriate for adults and children alike, is provided by Dr. Cat of Santa Cruz Dental Artists, located in Santa Cruz, CA. Dr. Cat and our team want to help you enjoy excellent oral health and, ideally, keep your natural teeth throughout life. Call us today to schedule your checkup and cleaning.
Selecting a Toothbrush
There are literally hundreds of toothbrushes at big-box stores and pharmacies, and thousands on Amazon.com. Besides choosing a favorite color and style, what factors should you consider when making a purchase?
First, bristle firmness is important. Unless your dentist tells you differently, always opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush. Harder bristles can damage, and even erode, sensitive gum tissue.
Second, look at the size of the brush head. Toddler toothbrushes have small heads for small mouths, and the length of heads increases from there. Adults should base the head size choice on their mouth size. Smaller mouths and smaller teeth need smaller toothbrush heads. A too-large toothbrush head can bump against the gums, causing sores.
Lastly, grip should be a consideration. You need a toothbrush that will provide a good, solid grip so that it doesn’t slip and harm your gums.
Choosing Your Toothpaste
Like toothbrushes, toothpaste varieties abound. Here are a few guidelines to help you narrow down the options:
● Look for the ADA Seal of Approval
● Children under three years of age need to use un-fluoridated toothpaste ● After age three, everyone needs to use fluoride toothpaste
● Choose a flavor that appeals to you
● Consider the special properties of some toothpastes, and buy the one that meets your needs: for sensitive teeth, whitening, breath-freshening, etc
Proper Brushing: The Technique
● Place a pea-sized drop of toothpaste on your brush.
● Wet the bristles, then turn off the water.
● Look at yourself in the mirror.
● Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to teeth.
● Scrub in a circular motion, not too vigorously or hard.
● Brush at the gum line.
● Brush all surfaces of each tooth, including the back of your wisdom teeth.
● Continue brushing for a full two minutes, rinsing the brush before a final scrub. ● Spit as necessary.
● Rinse your mouth with water.
● Wash your toothbrush, fanning the bristles to remove all traces of debris and toothpaste. ● Allow your brush to air dry, then put a cover on it or place it in a drawer.
A few tips…
● By the way, you need to use a new toothbrush every three months. Bristles become soft and frayed over time.
● On some brushes, the side opposite the bristles (on the head) has ridges designed for tongue scraping. Simply run them over your tongue, back to front, to remove plaque from the tongue’s bumpy surface. This may help resolve bad breath.
● Do not leave toothbrushes out in a room with a toilet or always close the toilet lid.
● Microwave your toothbrush in water for five minutes after you’ve been sick, or replace it.
● Floss before brushing, once a day. A handheld flosser is often easier to manage than floss alone.
● Brush after breakfast and before bed.
● For children, set a timer until they can estimate how long two minutes is and always, always, always check their work. You may need to perform some touch-ups.
● Antibacterial mouthwash is a great addition to a brushing routine.
Next Steps Properly brushing your teeth is imperative for good oral health. However, equally important are six-month dental checkups and cleanings. These preventive measures could allow your teeth to remain healthy and strong throughout your entire lifetime! Call Dr. Cat at Santa Cruz Dental Artists, located in Santa Cruz, California, today at 1-831-457-0343 or visit our website at SantaCruzDentalArtists.com to reserve your appointment.
