At Riverside Dental Center, we care about your health

HERE ARE SOME TIPS ON HOW TO BRUSH YOUR TEETH

What Is The Right Way To Brush?

First and foremost, good brushing always starts with the right toothbrush. Pick a brush with soft bristles and a small head. It is a misconception that a harder brush achieves a better result. A soft brush is strong enough to clean your teeth by gently removing plaque and not damaging the enamel on your teeth or your gums.

The next important step is picking the right toothpaste. Any toothpaste with fluoride is ideal for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If you have special needs, your dentist will most likely make a suitable recommendation. Two brands that are quite effective for brushing are Crest Multicare and Colgate Total.

Using the right technique that works best for you can ensure that your entire mouth is cleaned thoroughly without leaving any spots. As a rule of thumb, it is a good practice to start at a particular location in your mouth and work your way all through the mouth, finally returning to the original location. Brushing your teeth should take at least two minutes and can last up to four minutes to provide optimal results.

While there are many effective methods for brushing your teeth, here is a popular technique that is highly recommended.

Start off by using a peanut sized amount of toothpaste on your brush. Your brush should be inclined at a 45-degree angle towards your teeth. Press gently against the gums ensuring that the bristles are cleansing the area between your teeth and gums. With repetitive lateral strokes, brush the plaque from the grooves between the teeth and gums. Repeat this process for about eight times before moving on to the adjacent area. Adjust the alignment of the brush to maximize cleaning in the hard to reach crevices. It is common for the foam to build up in your mouth. Do not stop brushing at this point. Spit it out and continue brushing until every area has been covered.

It is ideal to brush after every meal. If that is not possible, brush twice a day, after breakfast and before going to bed.

And finally, brushing alone is not enough – don’t forget to floss.