The most basic part of dental hygiene is brushing your teeth regularly. Sticking to a routine of daily brushing your teeth contributes to healthy teeth and gums, preventing cavities and other complicated dental health problems, and maintaining better overall health.
American Dental Association on Daily Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth twice a day, in the morning and evening, with a soft-bristled brush is recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA). The ADA recommends cleaning your teeth for at least 2 minutes each time and making sure you brush every tooth.
Cleaning between your teeth once a day is important in addition to brushing. If you are confused about whether to floss before or after brushing, then dental experts recommend flossing before you brush. It helps because flossing can loosen the debris in the hard-to-reach corners of your mouth, which can then be gotten rid of using toothpaste and a toothbrush.
You can use dental floss, floss picks, or a water flosser for interdental cleaning purposes. Plaque and food particles that get lodged under your gum line and between your teeth can be removed by cleaning or flossing between your teeth. Bacteria can build on your gum line if you skip this procedure too often, increasing your risk of cavities and other dental problems. Consult your dentist to determine which type of floss or flossing system is best for you.
What is the Proper Way to Brush Teeth?
Many people are strict about their daily brushing and flossing, yet, they still experience problems like tartar and cavities. In this case, they may not be following the proper way to brush.
There are a few techniques to follow. You can always ask your dentist what is the best technique recommended by them. However, one basic way is to start your brushing routine with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Hold the brush at an angle of 45 degrees against your gum line and use gentle back and forth motions. The important thing is to cover as many surfaces of the mouth as possible so that you can get rid of maximum bacteria and debris.
You should spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth twice a day (after waking up and before bedtime). Spend 30 seconds each on brushing your upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left section of the mouth. You should be brushing the back and chewing surfaces of the teeth as well.
Similarly, it is important to employ the right method of flossing your teeth daily. You can ask your dentist to guide you. Your dentist can also provide you with further dental tips on oral care, such as mouthwash after brushing, brushing your tongue, devices to make your routine easier and more effective, etc.
Chula Vista Dentist
If you want to learn more about the proper way to brush teeth and how to floss, consult your Chula Vista dentist, Dr. Nick Addario.