What’s the Best Way to Brush Your Teeth?

Just seeing two (or more) different dentists in a short time period can lead to patients being confused on what the best way to take care of their teeth is. While one dentist may recommend adding a third brushing into your day, another dentist may tell you that you’re over brushing.

So what is the best way to brush your teeth and how do you know who to trust when it comes to your oral hygiene routine?

Finding YOUR Ideal Oral Hygiene Habits

Every patients mouth is unique, and in trade, requires a specific hygiene regimen to keep up with their mouth’s specific needs. For a healthy mouth and smile we recommend:

Asking Your Dentist

Your dentist should be someone that you trust to help in taking care of your teeth. If you don’t trust your dentist and their advice, it’s time to find a new dentist! Ask about what they recommend for your unique teeth and discuss the areas where they see plaque buildup during your next cleaning. Areas with plaque buildup are an easy tell of where you need to spend more time cleaning.

Use The Right Tools

The type of toothbrush you use is a personal choice. While some patients swear by an electric toothbrush, some prefer the simplicity of a manual toothbrush. Regardless of the type, always use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if your bristles begin to fray. A worn toothbrush can cause damage to your teeth.

Don’t Skip The Floss

Flossing your teeth daily is the best way to achieve a complete clean of your mouth. Your toothbrush isn’t able to reach all areas of your mouth easily, and plaque can easily form between your teeth, leading to cavities.

Proper Brushing Technique

Proper brushing takes at least two full minutes, and most adults fall short of the two minute mark when it comes to brushing their teeth. To properly brush your teeth:

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums
• Sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline – never brushing up!
• Gently move the brush back and forth in short, tooth-wide strokes
• Brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of your teeth
• To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes
• Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath

How Important Is The Type Of Toothpaste I Use?

It is important to use a toothpaste that’s a great fit for you and your smile. There are many varieties of toothpaste designed for many conditions patients often experience, including being prone to cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth and teeth with high sensitivity. If you’re struggling with finding the best toothpaste for you and your mouth, ask us what we recommend for you at your next appointment.

When Brushing Isn’t Enough

Building a well-rounded diet to stay tooth-healthy is just as important in taking care of your teeth as brushing them is. A healthy diet sets the stage for success throughout your entire body. The healthier you’re eating, the less plaque and buildup there will be to remove from your teeth when you go to clean them.

For a healthy smile, Try incorporating these foods into your diet:

• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Raw fruits and vegetables
• Leafy greens
• Eggs
• Water

Do What Feels Right

Your comfort matters when it comes to the condition of your teeth, and Dr. Baudean is here to help! The easier it is for you to clean your teeth, the more likely you are to stay on track and avoid tooth decay. Find dental tools that you enjoy using such as an electric toothbrush and waterpik to make your oral hygiene a little more fun. Schedule an appointment today and ask us for a recommendation on how your brushing technique measures up.