Oral Hygiene is important, and one foundational aspect of oral hygiene is brushing your teeth! Making oral hygiene more effective begins with better toothbrushing! Here are 5 ways that you can improve your tooth brushing skills.
Pick The Right Tools
Choosing a toothbrush that is appropriate for the job is important. Choosing a brush that is the right size to fit into the tight spaces in your mouth can be helpful. Also although it may seem counter intuitive, softer bristles can clean very effectively, and more thoroughly than harder bristles. They are flexible to reach into tight spaces, gentle enough to clean around soft tissues, and leave enamel clean, but not worn down. Electric toothbrushes can also up your clean factor, and even help you improve your technique through different linked apps.
Time Yourself
Often when in a rush, it is easy to fall into cutting short parts of our daily routine, but shorter in this case really does take away from your oral hygiene. Better toothbrushing begins with brushing that is thorough and not rushed. 2 minutes is the recommended time, and there are many apps or tools that can help you time toothbrushing. One easy trick is to play your favorite jam, as most songs are 2-3 minutes long. If you brush for the length of one song, chances are you have topped the 2 minute mark.
Be Gentle
Brushing harder or faster isn’t better or more efficient. Brushing too hard could damage enamel or soft tissues. Don’t substitute force for thoughtful and informed intention. Take your time and be gentle. You can begin better brushing with a gentle touch, and short repetitive strokes.
Be Thorough
It can be tempting to just brush your teeth and call it a day, but each area needs equal attention, and some are harder to reach than others. Be sure to get each zone of your mouth. Hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle, and be sure to include the gum line. If you want fresher breath, taking a moment to brush your tongue gently can go a long way to a more pleasant day with fresher breath. Better toothbrushing can impact your day in many little ways, including helping to promote fresher breath and cleaner teeth!
Get Backup
You don’t have to do this alone. Make sure to get regular cleanings, so your local dentist can support you on your journey to better toothbrushing!
Call our Pleasanton or San Antonio dental office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.
