Length of Brushing Time
Some people brush their teeth without really thinking about it while performing other morning chores and don’t know how long they typically spend brushing. They may even get distracted and need both hands for a task and pause their tooth brushing. What seems like enough time could be too short.
Two minutes is the ideal amount of time to brush your teeth. This comes to about 30 seconds for each side (top right, top left, bottom right, and bottom left). To help keep yourself on track, try to avoid performing other parts of your morning routine while brushing your teeth. Get a fun hourglass timer for your bathroom or choose a two-minute song to start your morning off on the right foot.
Brushing Technique
Did you know that there are several different tooth brushing techniques? Side-to-side, up-to-down, and circular are some of the more common styles. Side-to-side can feel the most natural and easy, but it’s not always the most effective method. Brushing up-to-down or in a circular motion can help remove plaque and foreign materials rather than simply pushing them around. It's also better for your gums.
Toothpaste Amount
Many people don’t realize how little toothpaste you need. Too much toothpaste can cause extra abrasion to your teeth’s enamel, damaging your teeth. It can also leave white spots on the surface of your teeth from too much fluoride – a condition called fluorosis.
The recommended amount of toothpaste to use is merely a pea-sized drop. This amount helps clean off bacteria and buildup without being too aggressive to the surface of your teeth. For kids with developing teeth, the suggested amount is even smaller. Use just a smear or rice-sized amount for small children.
Complete Coverage
It can be easy to get into a routine of brushing just the front of your teeth and missing important places. Some people commonly miss the inner sides of their teeth. Plaque can build up on the back of your front incisors as a result of incomplete tooth brushing habits. Remember that every surface of your teeth exposed to food and drink needs regular cleaning – not just the surfaces you see when you smile.
Visit the Dentist
Brushing your teeth correctly is very important in maintaining your overall oral health. Following these techniques will help you elevate your healthy routine, but it's also important to regularly visit the dentist. Schedule a cleaning at one of our many convenient Access Dental and Dentures locations for the best dental care in Southern Missouri!
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