When it comes to most people, brushing teeth can seem like just another monotonous chore that needs to be done daily. However, if people rush through their brushing routine often, they can be creating detrimental effects for their teeth, gums, and overall mouth health.
If you want to impress your dentist on the next visit to The Complete Dentistry of Orland Park, follow these five brushing tips from the pros! You might not get a gold star, but you are sure to be noticed by our hygienists next time you are in the office!
Exchange Your Toothbrush Frequently
For a typical person who brushes his or her teeth regularly twice per day, changing his or her toothbrush every three-four months is imperative. Sometimes, you may notice your bristles begin to wear or bend sooner than this. Replace your toothbrush. Old toothbrushes tend to harbor harmful bacteria that can lead to gum disease or gingivitis.
Brush Your Teeth More Softly
It may appear that you need to scrub at your teeth to get them clean; however, teeth and gums are sensitive. Invest in a soft toothbrush and always brush at a 45° angle in a circular motion. Scrubbing your teeth can ruin the enamel and actually create more sensitivity on your teeth. Avoid brushing hard in a sawing back-and-forth motion as it can cause your gums to recede and damage your tooth structure.
Floss Daily
Flossing helps alleviate the buildup of plaque between your teeth. Flossing should be done prior to brushing your teeth, and in a gentle motion. Move your floss in a “V” shape between your teeth using a clean section for each tooth. Be careful to avoid sawing back and forth to avoid bleeding gums.
Invest in an Electric Toothbrush
Sometimes we just cannot get out of our bad habits, so we need to make lifestyle changes. The best chance for your teeth is to go high tech. This is the solution for those who are unable to do well manually. Electronic toothbrushes usually do a better job at cleaning and are able to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Set a Timer while You Brush
As recommended by the Academy of General Dentistry, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, two minutes each time. This will make sure you effectively get rid of all cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth. Do you have trouble timing yourself? Do your kids struggle with timing? Try using an egg timer, a clock, or a free app such as BrushDJ to help you reach that two-minute mark! At The Complete Dentistry of Orland Park, we try to encourage healthy brushing and flossing habits for all of our patients. During your visit, your dental hygienist is always here to help give you tips and tricks to make brushing easier. Blow us out of the water on your next visit by practicing good dental hygiene! To schedule your next appointment at our Orland Park, IL office, give us a call at 877-478-1353.
